Hundreds of CSUDH alumni from throughout the state descended on the campus during Homecoming 2023, enjoying a week-long slate of activities and opportunities to connect with old friends.
The event kicked off with an opening ceremony in front of the Leo F. Cain. University Library, and culminated on Saturday, Feb. 18, with an outdoor brunch, games and activities on the North Lawn, and a pair of basketball games at the Torodome.
At Monday’s opening ceremony, several speakers got the event rolling by describing their pride at attending CSUDH and happiness at seeing the campus growing and thriving. Former mayor of Lynwood and current Alumni Advisory Council President José Solache was in attendance, saying, “I’m full of pride for this event, and anything we can do as a campus to promote more pride and spirit. We should be proud of where we’re at.”
“We really want alumni to give to the campus, not only financially, but with their time and commitment,” he added. “We want to create that exciting vibe where our Toros want to get involved because they’re proud to bring their families or significant others back home to campus.”
Other Homecoming Week activities included an alumni, faculty, and staff social held at the Alumni Brick Courtyard, where guests enjoyed drinks and light refreshments, and Teddy Toro was on hand for high-fives and selfies. On Friday night, the brothers and sisters of CSUDH’s Greek community stepped out in style at the annual D9 Greek Yardshow, hosted by the Delta Sigma Theta sorority’s Pi Chi chapter. The jubilant crowd enjoyed an evening of spirited dance routines, shouted history lessons, and playful crowd interaction.
The Saturday morning Homecoming Brunch Bash wrapped up the week, with inflatables and a soft play area for children on the North Lawn. A “Drag Bingo” event was held, as well as performances by representatives from CSUDH cultural resource centers, and demonstrations by the Snap Inc. Institute for Technology & Education, and the CSUDH Mobile Fabrication Labs, who produced personalized bags for Toro alumni and friends.
Saturday’s events ended with a pair of basketball games at the Torodome, where the number-five-ranked women’s team beat Cal State Los Angeles 64-61, which clinched the Toros’ first California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) title since the 2015-2016 season. Their win was followed by the men’s squad defeating Cal State LA 68-61. A beer garden and food from In-N-Out was available for fans outside the gym.
As Director of Alumni Relations Felicia Hernandez put it, “There’s a lot for CSUDH alumni to be proud of. The campus has grown over the years, and Homecoming is an important reminder of what our graduates helped build in the years they were here. By coming back for Homecoming, they can continue to build this community for the next generation.”
