On Saturday, Feb. 11, University of Montevallo alumni across several class years reunited on UM’s brick streets to participate in a variety of homecoming activities and the University’s near century-old homecoming tradition, College Night.
Since 1919, the University’s student body splits into two sides to compete in various creative competitions. This divide first occurred between the senior and junior classes until the entire student body joined as the Purple Side and Gold Side two years later.
In 1950, it was decided that both sides would compete by performing original musicals completely written, directed, choreographed and scored by students. The sides also earn points by participating in various athletic and spirit competitions.
Each year, alumni return to attend various reunions throughout the day culminating in the final performance of College Night on Saturday evening.
During the annual Homecoming Awards & Recognition Luncheon, three alumni were honored for accomplishments in their careers as well as their continued dedication to the University.
Jason Styres ’06 received the Natalie Molton Gibbons Young Alumni Achievement Award, Stephanie Newton ’03 received the Natalie Molton Gibbons Alumni Achievement Award and Jim Methvin ’73 received the coveted Distinguished Alumnus Award.
Additionally, Associate Professor of Theatre Marcus Lane was this year’s recipient of the College Night dedication. The student body also crowned seniors David Pohler and Spencer Anglin as Mr. and Ms. Montevallo.
That night, students, alumni and family gathered to witness the 99th performance of College Night. Purple Side brought fictional characters from various centuries together to experience the magic of NYC in “Showtime,” scoring a total of 502 out of 636 points. The Gold Side later won the night with their telling of the “true story” of Robin Hood in “A Very Notti Musical” with a total score of 528.
Photo gallery of the 2017 College Night