The University of South Carolina Upstate celebrated Homecoming 2025 from February 11 to 16, uniting students, alumni, faculty, and staff with events that honored the university’s history and culture.
Spartan Spirit Week set the tone with themed days from February 10 to 14. Each day featured unique ways to display school pride, including Pajama Day, Tacky Tuesday, Big Green Wave, Dress Like a Student or Faculty/Staff Member, and Spartan Valentine, encouraging the community to wear red.
Alumni were honored via social media by sharing their meet cute stories – a loving tradition that aims to capture the hearts of all those who found love at USC Upstate.
The Black Cultural Arts Festival, sponsored by the Center for Africana and African American Studies, was a highlight on Saturday, February 15, from 9:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event, themed “Celebrating Black Joy,” featured workshops on entrepreneurship, hair maintenance techniques like braiding and locs, artistic performances, and a panel discussion on the role of artists in social justice. The festival concluded with a dynamic, all-ages hair show.
During the festival, USC Upstate Chancellor Dr. Bennie Harris delivered an impactful speech exploring the historical and cultural significance of Black hair and identity. Reflecting on societal expectations and race-based hair discrimination, Harris urged attendees to embrace their true selves. “Be who we are, and enjoy who we are, regardless of what that identity is,” he said. Harris praised Dr. Marlon Smith, Director of the Center of Africana and African American Studies and festival organizer for his efforts in bringing the community together and amplifying Black voices while celebrating Black beauty.
The festival also featured a panel discussion on the intersection of cultural identity and the business of art and music, highlighting financial literacy and entrepreneurship in creative industries. Johnny Sizemore, co-producer of a South Carolina-based art and entertainment company, and Alphaeus Anderson, USC Upstate Gospel Choir Director, shared their experiences. Sizemore emphasized the historical exploitation of Black artists and the importance of understanding industry contracts. “BB King once said he didn’t make the money he could have because all he focused on was playing guitar,” he remarked.
The festival ended with a hair show where local beauticians flaunted their talent on the runway. From hot pink locs to a timeless braid, the crowd got a plethora of ideas.
Homecoming athletic events drew crowds to support the Spartans, with the men’s basketball team facing UNC Asheville on February 12 and both men’s and women’s (W 68-59) teams playing Gardner-Webb on February 15. USC Upstate’s softball team also competed on February 14 and 15 against IU Indy and Canisius. USC Upstate baseball participated in a weekend series with Boston College.
The 2025 Homecoming King and Queen were announced during the halftime show of the women’s basketball game. Congratulations to our Homecoming King, Anthony Murray, and Homecoming Queen, Miracle McCoy!
USC Upstate Homecoming 2025 captured the essence of Spartan pride through spirited celebrations and meaningful conversations on identity, culture, and community.
More photos from the weekend can be found on our Flickr albums.