West Liberty University Announces Homecoming 2026 Celebration

WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University will welcome alumni, students, families, and friends back to the Hilltop for Homecoming 2026, featuring a luau-themed week of traditions, reunions, athletics, performances, and alumni events leading into Homecoming Weekend, Oct. 16–17.

Homecoming activities begin Sunday, Oct. 11, with the Homecoming Kickoff at the Hogue Quadrangle. Events throughout the week include Serenades, Homecoming candidate activities, soccer matches, a pep rally, hula dance instruction, and performances of the Hilltop Players’ The Cripple of Inishmaan.

“Homecoming is always a special opportunity to welcome our alumni and friends back to West Liberty and celebrate the connections that make the Hilltop such a meaningful place,” said Dr. Tim Borchers, President. “We look forward to bringing the WLU community together for a great weekend of traditions, reunions, athletics, and activities across campus.”

Friday, Oct. 16, will feature several opportunities for alumni to reconnect with the University. Class year reunion registration will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Elbin Library, followed by a noon luncheon recognizing alumni celebrating 50 or more years since graduation. Alumni celebrating milestone reunions with class years ending in ‘1 and ‘6 will receive special recognition throughout Homecoming.

Other Friday activities include the first West Liberty Men’s Basketball Alumni Golf Outing at Oglebay Park, tours of WLU’s Speech and Hearing Clinic, alumni gatherings, volleyball against Shawnee State, and an evening performance of The Cripple of Inishmaan.

The annual President’s Recognition Dinner will begin at 5:30 p.m. Friday in the College Union Building. During the dinner, WLU will recognize its 2026 Impact of Philanthropy honorees and formally induct David Bridgeman ’77, Todd Cover ’98, Joyce Jingle ’78, and Richard L. Morgan ’01 into the University’s Alumni Wall of Honor. The four inductees were previously announced by the University in September and were selected for their professional achievements and lasting impact throughout the Ohio Valley.

Homecoming Saturday begins with tailgating at 8:30 a.m. in the parking lots behind the ASRC. Alumni and visitors can also take part in campus tours and activities at the Elbin Library, milestone reunion activities, Alumni Band rehearsal, and a tour of the Speech and Hearing Clinic.

The Hilltoppers will take on West Virginia Wesleyan College at 1 p.m. at West Family Stadium. The 2026 Homecoming King and Queen will be crowned at halftime, and the University’s newest Wall of Honor inductees will be recognized during the game.

“Homecoming gives our alumni the chance to return to the Hilltop, reconnect with classmates, and see everything happening at West Liberty today,” said Betsy Delk, Executive Director of the West Liberty University Foundation. “Whether someone graduated five years ago or 50 years ago, we want them to feel that West Liberty is still home.”

Saturday’s activities will continue with an evening performance of The Cripple of Inishmaan at Kelly Theatre and the Homecoming Dance in the College Union Ballroom. The Hilltop Players will conclude the weekend with a final performance of The Cripple of Inishmaan at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18.

A complete schedule of Homecoming activities, reunion registration, tailgating information, and additional details are available at westliberty.edu/homecoming.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.

Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu