Get Ready for Homecoming 2026: "College Hill: The Remix"
A Week of Celebration Marks 20 Years Since VSU’s College Hill Debut and Welcomes ESPN’s First Take to Campus.
Virginia State University invites alumni, students, families, and friends to return to The Hill for Homecoming 2026, a weeklong celebration taking place October 3-10 under the theme "College Hill: The Remix."
This year's theme commemorates the 20th anniversary of Virginia State University's appearance on BET's groundbreaking reality television series College Hill, which introduced millions of viewers to the culture, traditions, and student experience at one of the nation's premier public HBCUs.
A highlight of the week will be the annual Homecoming Parade on Saturday, October 10, led by retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Sheila R. Baxter, a distinguished alumna, former student-athlete, ROTC graduate, and the first African American woman to attain the rank of Brigadier General in the Army Medical Service Corps.
"Homecoming is more than a tradition at Virginia State University. It is a celebration of our history, our impact, and the lifelong connection that Trojans share with this institution," said Regina Barnett-Tyler, Co-Chair of the VSU Homecoming Committee. "This year's theme allows us to honor a significant moment in VSU's history while also celebrating the generations of leaders, scholars, athletes, and innovators who continue to build our legacy."
The official kickoff of Homecoming Week will begin with the annual Lighting of the Stadium on Sunday, October 4, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters to launch a week of spirited activities and celebrations.
Throughout the week, students will participate in a variety of events designed to celebrate Trojan pride, foster engagement, and create memorable experiences on campus.
The excitement continues Friday, October 9, when ESPN's nationally televised First Take broadcasts live from Virginia State University's campus, placing VSU and the HBCU experience before a national audience. This event is open to the public.
The Homecoming celebration culminates on Saturday, October 10, with a full day of activities, including the Homecoming Parade, tailgating, vendors, reunions, and the Homecoming football game as the Trojans take on Livingstone College.
Thousands of alumni, family members, friends, and supporters are expected to return to campus for what has become one of the region's premier Homecoming celebrations.
"Whether you are returning home to reconnect with classmates, cheering on the Trojans, or experiencing Homecoming for the first time, this week promises to be a celebration of everything that makes Virginia State University special," Barnett-Tyler said.
For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit the Homecoming website at vsu.edu/homecoming.