Join us for Homecoming 2026 at Ferrum College, happening Friday, October 30, through Sunday, November 1! This will be a lively weekend of connection, celebration, and Panther pride. Festivities will include class reunions—highlighted by the 50th reunion of the Class of 1976 and their induction into the Golden Panthers, and the 60th reunion of the 1966 Ferrum Junior College Football Team and cheerleaders—along with athletic events, the traditional homecoming football game, tailgating, a play, social gatherings, and plenty of chances to reconnect with friends old and new. Mark your calendars and start making plans to be back on campus—we can’t wait to welcome you home. See below for more details.
Art Show: Ed Dolinger
E. Taylor Greer Gallery, Stanley Library
Come see the work of local artist Ed Dolinger! See the Stanley Library tab on the https://ferrum.edu/homecoming-weekend/ page for more information about Dolinger. Self-guided. Complimentary.
Alumni Board Fall Meeting
11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Founders Room, Stanley Library
Business meeting of elected representatives of the Alumni Board of Directors (ABOD). Click here to see the list of members of ABOD (scroll down to Alumni Groups & Organizations, then click the plus sign next to “Alumni Board of Directors”). Complimentary. Business casual dress at minimum requested.
Walk Down Memory Lane Display
2:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Stanley Library
Come take a “Walk Down Memory Lane” and view artifacts and snapshots of Ferrum College’s history through the decades. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Anthony Giesen Gallery of American Brilliant Cut Glass Tours
4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Stanley Library
The staff of Stanley Library will be hosting tours of the Anthony Giesen Gallery of American Brilliant Cut Glass. Giesen’s collection, amassed over a 50-year period, includes a number of select rarities and represents examples of the world-renowned artistry of the American Brilliant period, circa 1876-1916. Many of the nearly 300 pieces in the collection are complete with the maker’s signature, adding to the overall value. Among higher education institutions, only Texas A&M has a similar collection on display. However, those who view Giesen’s collection will find it to be not only larger, but also unique. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Alumni Social Event: Men’s & Women’s Tennis
4:30 pm to 6:00 pm
Burrows-Skeens Tennis Courts
A celebration of legacy and competition! Alumni, supporters, and current student-athletes will take the court for an afternoon of connection, competition, socializing, eating, and showing their Panther pride. Bring your tennis racquet if you want to compete, Thank you for your continued support of the Men’s and Women’s Tennis Teams and Coach Rincon. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Cheerleaders Open Practice
4:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Ferrum College Fitness Center
All former cheerleaders are invited to open practice with the current team. Complimentary. Pre-registration required via Google Form.
All Graduating Classes & Golden Panthers Reception, Dinner, and Dancing: Class of 1976 50th Reunion Induction Ceremony
4:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Blue Ridge Mountain Room, Franklin Hall
All Golden Panthers (those who graduated 50 or more years ago), alumni, and friends are encouraged to join us in the celebration of the Class of 1976 and their induction into the Golden Panthers. We will also be celebrating the 1966 FJC Football Team, Cheerleaders, and Mascot as National Runner Ups. This event kicks off our Homecoming Weekend! Business casual dress at minimum requested. $30 / person. Pre-registration required.
Theatre Event: Faith of Our Fathers
7:30 pm
Sale Theatre, Schoolfield Hall
Join us to learn more about the history of Ferrum College as we celebrate a century in song. One of the oldest buildings on campus, Schoolfield Hall was the original chapel before it became home to Sale Theatre, the Rex Stephenson Theatre, and the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre. In this uplifting performance written by R. Rex Stephenson for the centenary of the building in 2025, we’ll take a fun trip through Ferrum College history and the building’s first 101 years. Donations welcomed. Pre-registration required.
To donate to the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre, visit this link and select “Other” from the dropdown menu. Then, type “Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre” in the following field. Complete the remainder of the form, and click the Give Securely button to submit your gift.
2026 Celebration of Impact: Donor Appreciation & Alumni Awards Ceremony
8:00 am to 11:00 am
Blue Ridge Mountain Room, Franklin Hall
Alumni Award recipients will receive a ticket for themselves and four (4) guests to attend the breakfast ceremony. Each giving society member will receive a ticket for themselves and one (1) guest to attend the breakfast ceremony. Ferrum College is excited to celebrate the impact of our donors by recognizing members of our giving societies. We will recognize the 2026 Alumni Award recipients and express our appreciation to all those leading the way in supporting the College and our students. All other attendees $30 / person. Pre-registration required.
Alumni: Men’s Basketball
9:00 am to 10:00 am – Open Practice
10:00 am to 11:00 am – Black & Gold Scrimmage
10:30 am to 11:30 am – Alumni Game
Swartz Gym
All former players are invited to join our current Ferrum College Men’s Basketball team during open gym practice. After open practice, the team and coach invite you to cheer on the current team in a Black & Gold Scrimmage followed by a friendly alumni competition. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Agriculture Alumni Potluck Breakfast
9:00 am to 11:00 am
Titmus Agricultural Center
Private Event: AG Club alumni only. Join the Agriculture Club for a traditional buffet-style breakfast before the big game! After breakfast, there will be tours of the ongoing projects at the farm. The food served during this event will be homemade and not subject to state inspection. Attire: AG attire for a group picture; otherwise, casual attire. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
To donate to the Agriculture Club, visit this link and select “Other” from the dropdown menu. Then, type “Agriculture Club” in the following field. Complete the remainder of the form, and click the Give Securely button to submit your gift.
Anthony Giesen Gallery of American Brilliant Cut Glass Tours
9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Stanley Library
The staff of Stanley Library will be hosting tours of the Anthony Giesen Gallery of American Brilliant Cut Glass. Giesen’s collection, amassed over a 50-year period, includes a number of select rarities and represents examples of the world-renowned artistry of the American Brilliant period, circa 1876-1916. Many of the nearly 300 pieces in the collection are complete with the maker’s signature, adding to the overall value. Among higher education institutions, only Texas A&M has a similar collection on display. However, those who view Giesen’s collection will find it to be not only larger, but also unique. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Admissions Open House: Black and Gold Experience
9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Garber 106
We are excited to welcome high school juniors and seniors for tours, academic showcases, student panels, and more! Campus tours are available upon request. No registration required.
Class of 1976: Memorial Service
9:30 am to 10:00 am
Vaughn Chapel
Participants will meet at Vaughn Chapel and then walk to a designated area on campus with Reverend David “Pastor Dave” Taylor, Ferrum College Chaplain. Participants will decide as a group where they would like the moment of silence held. A group photo will be taken. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Walk Down Memory Lane Display
9:30 am to 1:30 pm
Stanley Library
Come take a “Walk Down Memory Lane” and view artifacts and snapshots of Ferrum College’s history through the decades. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Art Show: Ed Dolinger at E. Taylor Greer Gallery
9:30 am to 6:00 pm
Greer Gallery, Stanley Library
Come see the work of local artist Ed Dolinger! See the Stanley Library tab on the https://ferrum.edu/homecoming-weekend/ page for more information about Dolinger. Self-guided. Complimentary.
Alumni & Affinity Groups Breakfast
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Franklin Hall Cafeteria
Calling all members of affinity groups (i.e., Greek life, academic honor societies, Black Student Union, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Ferrum GSA, Ferrum Young Life, veterans, Sweetheart Society, Equestrian Team, Ferrum Radio, Iron Blade newspaper, Chrysalis) back to campus to connect, fellowship, and share a meal in the dining hall. $10 / person. Pre-registration required.
Homecoming Tailgate Alley
10:00 am
Bassett Hall Field – Between Bassett Hall and Swartz Gym
Bring your gear and game face for fun and feasting with Ferrum alumni and families! Claim your Tailgate Alley space early. Spaces are complimentary. Parking is first come, first served. Spaces go fast.
Click here for Ferrum College Athletics Parking Instructions and Tailgating Policy.
Click here to view Homecoming and Tailgate menu and place your orders.
Alumni Welcome Tent, Family & Kids Zone, Trunk-or-Treat
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Bassett Hall Field – Tailgate Alley
Check in and pick up your information packets full of details about the weekend’s events! Our Alumni Office, members of the Alumni Board of Directors (ABOD), clubs, organizations, and other team members will be on-site to welcome you home. AG Club sponsored Corn Hole. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Cheerleaders Open Warm-Ups
10:30 am
Ferrum College Fitness Center
All former cheerleaders are welcome to join the current team in open warm-ups before the game. Cheerleader alumni will have the option to participate in the Black Hat Walk and join the current team on the field to cheer our Panthers as they compete against Chowan University. Complimentary. Pre-registration required via Google Form.
Class of 1976 Welcome Tent
11:00 am to 2:00 pm
Field behind W.B. Adams Stadium
Check in and pick up your info packets about the weekend’s events! Meet our Alumni director, members of the Alumni Board of Directors, and others on-site. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Men’s Basketball Alumni Tailgating Event
11:30 am to 2:00 pm
Bassett Hall Field
Former players are welcome to join this catered tailgating event. $10 / person. Pre-registration required.
Women’s Basketball Alumni Tailgating Event
11:30 am to 2:00 pm
Bassett Hall Field
All former players are welcome to join this potluck style event for the women’s basketball alumni. FREE! Pre-registration required.
Tailgate: 1966 FJC Football Team, Mascot & Cheerleaders
12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
W.B. Adams Stadium
All 1966 football, cheerleading, and mascot alumni and guests are invited to this catered tailgate with current student athletes. $10 / person. Pre-registration required.
Black Hat Walk
12:00 pm
Tailgate Alley on Bassett Hall Field
Cheer on the Panther football players and coaches as they head to Adams Stadium and Daniel Field. Let’s show them that we are all behind our Black Hats! Show everyone what Panther Pride is all about! Ring your cow bells, shake your pom-poms, and make all the noise you can to support our team! Let’s get loud and cheer them on to victory! We will show everyone that we are Ferrum Rising! No registration required.
All Graduating Classes and Affinity Groups: Alumni Tailgate
12:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Bassett Hall Field
Join us at the Alumni Welcome Tent for a catered event. Remember to bring your lawn chairs. This is for all alumni classes and affinity groups (i.e., Golden Panthers, Athletics, Veterans, Performing Arts, Band). $10 / person Pre-registration required.
Class of 1976 Tailgating
1:00 pm
Field behind W.B. Adams Stadium
The newest additions to the Golden Panthers and their guests will have their own tailgate set up. Complimentary, potluck-style event. Pre-registration required.
Homecoming Football Game – Ferrum vs Chowan University
1:30 pm Pre-game Program, Championship Recognitions, & Division II Celebration
2:00 pm Game Kickoff
W.B. Adams Stadium and Football Field
Help fill the stands and cheer for the Panthers and Head Coach Kevin Sherman ’92. Show your Panther Pride as we host our rivals, Chowan University Hawks. Arrive at 1:30 pm to watch the pre-game program where we will celebrate the 60th reunion of the Class of ‘66 football team, cheerleaders, and mascot being national runner ups. We will also show our appreciation to the Alumni Awards recipients and the Class of ‘76 being inducted as Golden Panthers. Half-time activities will include the presentation of the Homecoming King and Queen with their court.
Pre-register online to purchase your tickets in advance for $10.00 per person. On game day, pick up pre-purchased tickets at Will Call at the home team stadium entrance. A picture ID is required to pick up your pre-purchased football ticket at Will Call. Will Call will be open two (2) hours prior to game time, starting at 12:00 noon and will stay open until half-time. Tickets available at the gate $20.00 per person, cash or card.
Sunday Brunch
10:30 am to 1:00 pm
Dining Hall, Upper Franklin Hall
Come in at your leisure and enjoy the fresh taste of Ferrum. Food services provided by our partner, Metz Culinary. $10.00 / person. Registration required.
Anthony Giesen Gallery of American Brilliant Cut Glass Tours
11:30 am to 5:00 pm
Stanley Library
The staff of Stanley Library will be hosting tours of the Anthony Giesen Gallery of American Brilliant Cut Glass. Giesen’s collection, amassed over a 50-year period, includes a number of select rarities and represents examples of the world-renowned artistry of the American Brilliant period, circa 1876-1916. Many of the nearly 300 pieces in the collection are complete with the maker’s signature, adding to the overall value. Among higher education institutions, only Texas A&M has a similar collection on display. However, those who view Giesen’s collection will find it to be not only larger, but also unique. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Theatre Event: Faith of Our Fathers
2:00 pm
Sale Theatre, Schoolfield Hall
Join us to learn more about the history of Ferrum College as we celebrate a century in song. One of the oldest buildings on campus, Schoolfield Hall was the original chapel before it became home to Sale Theatre, the Rex Stephenson Theatre, and the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre. In this uplifting performance written by R. Rex Stephenson for the centenary of the building in 2025, we’ll take a fun trip through Ferrum College history and the building’s first 101 years. Donations welcomed. Pre-registration required.
To donate to the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre, visit this link and select “Other” from the dropdown menu. Then, type “Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre” in the following field. Complete the remainder of the form, and click the Give Securely button to submit your gift.
Art Show: Ed Dolinger at E. Taylor Greer Gallery
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Greer Gallery, Stanley Library
Come see the work of local artist Ed Dolinger! See the Stanley Library tab on the https://ferrum.edu/homecoming-weekend/ page for more information about Dolinger. Self-guided. Complimentary.
Walk Down Memory Lane Display
3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Stanley Library
Come take a “Walk Down Memory Lane” and view artifacts and snapshots of Ferrum College’s history through the decades. Complimentary. Pre-registration required.
Your favorite fare is on the menu at one of the four campus dining options. Enjoy a fresh take by our food service partner Metz Culinary. Visit at your leisure, but please note that hours vary, so check the service schedules below. All locations accept cash or credit cards. Click this link to access menus for the dining hall and Homecoming week menus for tailgating purchases.
Dining Hall – Upper Franklin Hall
Monday to Friday
Saturday and Sunday
Panther Grounds (in Campus Store)
Panther Kitchen (Boar’s Head & Chopping Block) – Lower Franklin Hall
Panther Pizzeria – Lower Franklin Hall
Dining Hall Door Prices (all you can eat)
A surcharge of 2.6% + $0.10 applies to credit card payments. This fee does not exceed our cost of acceptance. No fee applies to debit or cash payments.
Click here to request catering orders or contact Michael Ferguson by calling 540-365-4453 or emailing michael.ferguson@metzcorp.com.
Find a wide array of Ferrum College spirit wear, gifts, and other merchandise at the Campus Store located in Panther Grounds. While you are there, enjoy your favorite freshly brewed Starbucks® coffee beverage and choose from a variety of sandwiches, salads, snacks, fresh fruit, baked goods, and bottled beverages that are available to go. Purchase selections from our “Pink-Out” collection apparel. All in-store purchases of merchandise are 20% off at the Campus Store in Panther Grounds.
Panther fans, get ready to fire up the grills and show your spirit—check out our tailgating policies to make the most of your game day! Please remember that dogs are not allowed in the tailgating area or in any Ferrum College athletic facilities.
Pre-registration is required for most events! If pre-registration or a pre-paid ticket is required, please pick up at the venue. Want to join in but didn’t register in time? Feel free to check by the venue to see if any spaces are available. If so, we will welcome you. If additional assistance is required, check out the Alumni Welcome Tent – Bassett Field from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm for more information.
October 31: Ferrum College takes on the Chowan University Hawks! Kickoff will be at 2 pm.
Purchase your Homecoming football tickets early for just $10 per person through our online registration page here!
On game day, swing by Will Call at the home team stadium entrance to pick up tickets before the 1:30 p.m. pre-game program kicks off. A picture ID is required to pick up your pre-purchased football ticket at Will Call. Will Call will be open two (2) hours prior to game time, starting at 12:00 noon and will stay open until half-time.
Tickets will also be available at the gate on Homecoming day for $20 per person (cash or card).
Click here to see the full Ferrum College Panther football schedule for 2026.
Business casual attire requested for the All Golden Panthers Reception, the 50th Reunion Reception for the Class of 1976. Dress for all other events is casual or spirit wear.
Click here for a campus map and driving directions.
Click here to find information about the variety of accommodations and transportation options available in Franklin County and within easy driving distance of Ferrum College.
Click here to see the daily routes, stops, and schedules for the Ferrum Express Shuttle.
The Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre (BRDT) has been your family’s destination for high-quality food and entertainment since 1979! The BRDT produces a full season of exciting and memorable plays and musicals. There’s something for everyone. This Homecoming, treat yourself and your family to high-quality entertainment right here in Ferrum.
Join us to learn more about the history of Ferrum College as we celebrate a century in song. One of the oldest buildings on campus, Schoolfield Hall was the original chapel, with a gymnasium and more, before it became home to the Sale Theatre, the Rex Stephenson Theatre, and the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre. In this uplifting performance written by R. Rex Stephenson for the centenary of the building in 2025, we’ll take a fun trip through Ferrum College history and the building’s first 101 years. Registrations are recommended, but not required. Click here for ticket information. Two performance in Sale Theatre Friday, 10/30 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, 11/01 at 2:00 pm.
More details about the play at this link.
Permanent archival displays in the stairwell (accessible from the central campus through the ground-floor elevator lobby) and Rex Stephenson Theatre lobby downstairs celebrate 51 years of theatre history at Ferrum College.
Stanley Library is the intellectual nerve center of Ferrum College, comprising three floors designed to give our students a variety of learning spaces. The library is open to members of the Ferrum community. The Library Staff invite you to visit while on campus Homecoming weekend to learn, grow, connect, and reconnect.
The History, Haunts, and Haints display will be in the main lobby. This display weaves Appalachian ghost tales with the history of Ferrum College. It will be available during Stanley Library hours. Can’t make it in person? Visit the Stanley Library website for a list of featured media.
Come take a “Walk Down Memory Lane” and view artifacts and snapshots of Ferrum College’s history through the decades. This display will be on the main floor of Stanley Library. Can’t make it in person? Visit the Stanley Library website to see snapshots from the “Walk Down Memory Lane” display.
The staff of Stanley Library will be hosting tours of the Anthony Giesen Gallery of American Brilliant Cut Glass.
Giesen’s collection, amassed over a 50-year period, includes a number of select rarities and represents examples of the world-renowned artistry of the American Brilliant period, circa 1876-1916. Many of the nearly 300 pieces in the collection are complete with the maker’s signature, adding to the overall value. Among higher education institutions, only Texas A&M has a similar collection on display. However, those who view Giesen’s collection will find it to be not only larger, but also unique.
Address: Ferrum College, Franklin Hall, 445 Ferrum Mountain Rd., Ferrum, VA 24088
The E. Taylor Greer Gallery will be showcasing the work of local artist Ed Dolinger. The show opening will be Friday, October 30th and can be viewed when the Stanley Library is open.
Ed Dolinger is a painter and sculptor whose career bridges Salt Lake City and Southwest Virginia. After studying at the Corcoran School of Art, he built a varied practice spanning two and three dimensions, with work in public and private collections across the country. In Salt Lake City, he founded and directed MetroArts and created public art for places including the city library and Park City Transit Center. Since returning to Virginia, Dolinger has continued to bring art into shared spaces, collaborating with students on a Roanoke City bus shelter and creating sculpture for Martinsville’s Public Art Garden. He taught art and sculpture at Hollins University.
Phone: (540) 365-4444 (In case of emergency if assistance is required, please also call 911.)
Address: 109 Ferrum Mountain Rd, Ferrum, VA 24088
Saturday to Sunday: 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 pm
Monday to Wednesday: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Thursday to Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Every member of our beautiful community helped to make the weekend a memorable and roaring good time!
Please enjoy some photo highlights of the events from October 10-12.
