By : Steve Seepersaud

Hundreds of alumni got together last weekend for one of the largest outdoor parties in the University’s history.  For the first time in its eight years of existence, Homecoming included a tailgate.

Alumni brought their grills to the Events Center parking lot for a cookout that preceded the men’s soccer game against the University of Vermont. 

During the tailgate, Binghamton Mayor Matthew T. Ryan, a Class of 1982 member, gave President Lois B. DeFleur a proclamation honoring the University and its alumni for their contributions to the region.

“The University is so important to the fabric of this community,” Ryan said.  “It’s great to see all these people celebrating their years here in Binghamton.”

Mary Daniszewski, mother of sophomore soccer player Leora Kenney, said she appreciated the enthusiastic support for the University and its varsity athletes.

“I think this tailgate is an amazing idea,” Daniszewski said.  “Because these students pour their hearts and souls into being Bearcats, it’s nice to see everyone having a good time.”

Chris Bellinzoni, who graduated from Binghamton in May, attended Tailgate ’08 because he considered it an opportunity to help build a new campus tradition.

“It’s a first-time event, so I figured you can only do it for the first time once,” Bellinzoni said.  

Homecoming 2008 Photos