Augusta University homecoming week kicks off with festivities and tradition

By Davis T. Harley | Staff writer

Homecoming week is in full swing at Augusta University. The annual homecoming fireworks show at the JSAC Amphitheater kicked off the festivities, giving students their first chance to meet the homecoming candidates and see the organizations' banners for the week.

Each banner followed the theme of this year’s homecoming, “Forever Blue,” with the subtitle “No Strangers to Homecoming.” Inspired by the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, the theme also embraces an '80s vibe.

Following the fireworks show, candidates participated in a meet-and-greet on the Health Sciences campus, where they connected with students and encouraged more involvement in AU’s homecoming events.

Students run for homecoming court for many reasons—whether to promote a cause, step out of their comfort zone, or represent their organization. Homecoming Duke candidate James Njuguna shared his motivation for running.

“I chose to run for homecoming duke because I enjoy doing things that push me out of my comfort zone,” Njuguna said. “My friends and the people around me have shown so much support, not only in my campaign but in my daily life as well. I think AU’s homecoming is different from other schools because we have an amazing staff that creates a memorable experience for both the candidates and the students.”

Njuguna’s experience reflects the strong sense of support and community at AU, both during homecoming and beyond.

One of the week’s most highly anticipated events, the Jag Mania dance competition, is set for Wednesday, Feb. 19, at Maxwell Theatre. Student organizations will showcase their dance teams to compete for awards and promote their candidates. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and seats are expected to fill quickly.

The homecoming dance will take place Friday night in the JSAC Ballroom, where the homecoming duke and duchess will be crowned.

The festivities conclude Saturday afternoon with the homecoming basketball game, one of the most attended sporting events of the year for the Augusta Jaguars. The homecoming king and queen will be crowned at halftime.

With a week full of excitement, AU students won’t want to miss a moment of homecoming 2025.

Contact Davis T. Harley at dharley@augusta.edu.