Gwen Larson, Director of Media Relations
620-341-5528 | glarson1@emporia.edu
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Emporia State University is about to take one giant leap into the stars with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students from Emporia and across Lyon County to talk in real time to astronauts aboard the International Space Station via amateur radio in spring 2026.
Seven impactful advocates for Emporia State University will be honored with presidential awards during the 2025 Black & Gold Gala on Oct. 31, a highlight of Homecoming week. The awards recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership, advocacy, and dedication have made a significant impact on the university and the broader community.
Dr. Muhammad Nashatizadeh’s approach to leadership is a simple approach: listen carefully, study the details and guide others toward clarity. During Homecoming week, he will share how insights from neurology can help build a meaningful life with Emporia State students and the community as he delivers the 2025 Sam and Jeannene Hayes Lecture.
ESU Theatre will host a single viewing of “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror,” a documentary about the enduring legacy of the cult-classic movie. The screening coincides with ESU Theatre’s production of “The Rocky Horror Show” as the 2025 Homecoming musical.
There is still time to organize a float or other entry for the Emporia State University Homecoming Parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1 and travel up Commercial Street to the campus. The theme is “Hornet Pride.”
Five outstanding Emporia State University graduates will be honored with the university’s highest alumni recognition — the Distinguished Alumni Award — during the Black & Gold Gala on Oct. 31, part of ESU’s Homecoming 2025 celebration. The award recognizes alumni who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in their careers and meaningful service to their professions, communities and alma mater.
How the science of DNA and research of genealogy can help investigators identify bodies and solve cold cases is the topic of the first seminar presentation in the 2025-26 Forensic Science Seminar Series at Emporia State University.
Emporia State University Theatre presents “The Rocky Horror Show,” a musical by Richard O’Brien. Performances are scheduled for Oct. 23, 24, 25, 30 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. There will be a special midnight show on Oct. 31. All performances will be held in the Karl C. Bruder Theatre in King Hall.
Hornets near and far can celebrate Emporia State University’s Homecoming Oct. 22 through Nov. 2 on campus. Events during this Year of Celebration include the Homecoming musical, football game, parade, special group reunions and a Black & Gold Gala.
Young Hornets and their families are invited to enjoy a FREE day of special activities on the Emporia State campus followed by tailgating and attending the ESU football game in Welch Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 11.