Homecoming 2026 is more than a weekend—it’s a celebration of Poet pride, lifelong connections, and a new chapter in Whittier College history. Join us October 22–25, 2026 as we welcome alumni, families, students, and friends back to campus for an unforgettable celebration featuring reunion gatherings, signature traditions, and the highly anticipated return of Poet football to Homecoming for the first time in six years.
From reconnecting with classmates and celebrating milestones to experiencing the excitement of game day, the all-new Poet Fest Fan Zone, and the energy of Memorial Stadium, this is a Homecoming you won’t want to miss.
Come home. Celebrate the past. Experience what’s next. Register today and be part of Poet history!
5:30 p.m. | Purple & Gold Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Banquet | Whittier DoubleTreeDetails to be announced
10-3 p.m. | Wardman Library Open House
Come browse the library main floor on a self-guided tour of lobby display cases and archival items. Extra yearbooks (beyond what we keep for the archives) will be available for purchase.
11 a.m. | Campus Tour
12-1 p.m. | Poet Musicale | Memorial Chapel
Enjoy a showcase of outstanding students, faculty and alumni talent, presented by the Department of Music. Choir alumni are invited to perform the school song Friends Forever, along with students.
1-3 p.m. | Music Department Reception | Arnold Hall and Patio
2:30- 4:30 p.m. | Planned Giving Seminar | Dezember House
3-4:15 p.m. | Industry Forum: The Business of People in the Age of AI | TBA
As artificial intelligence reshapes how organizations attract, select, and retain talent, the human element of work is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Join us for an engaging panel discussion and interactive Q&A—moderated by faculty—exploring the shifting landscapes of modern recruitment and organizational development.Whether you are a current student preparing to launch your career or an alum navigating AI's impact in your field, this forum offers a dedicated space for open dialogue, practical insights, and strategic networking. Connect with peers, faculty, and industry perspectives to discover how human-centered leadership thrives alongside emerging technology.
4 p.m. | Weekend Welcome Table | Shannon Center Patio
Start your Homecoming weekend by officially checking in, reconnecting with fellow Poets, and celebrating your return to campus. Stop by the Homecoming Welcome Experience to pick up your weekend materials, capture your first Homecoming memories with photo opportunities, connect with friends, and prepare for the weekend ahead. Following the welcome experience, join President Kristine E. Dillon ’73 and campus leadership for the annual State of the College as we celebrate Whittier’s progress, achievements, and exciting future.
5 p.m. | State of the College | Shannon Center Robinson Theater
Gather with the Poet community to hear the latest College update from President Kristine Dillon ’73. All members of the Whittier community are encouraged to attend. Welcome reception begins at 4:15 p.m. on the Shannon Center patio.
Society Brunches | Various Locations
Society members will receive event details through society chairs. Locations will be updated as events are confirmed. Check back for more information.
11 a.m. | Athletics Alumni – Men’s Basketball Game | Graham Athletic Center
11 a.m. - 1 p.m. | DIS Copenhagen Alumni Brunch | Arnold Hall Patio
Join the Office of International Programs (OIP) for a relaxed Homecoming Brunch as we welcome our friends from DIS Copenhagen. Enjoy pastries and refreshments while reconnecting with fellow alumni, faculty, staff, and friends who shared the unforgettable experience of studying abroad in Copenhagen.
Whether you participated in a DIS program recently or many years ago, this is a wonderful opportunity to catch up, reminisce, and celebrate the lasting connections made through international education.
1-3 p.m. | Model United Nations – Past, Present and Future Participants | Wardman Library, Poet Corner
1-5:30 p.m. | Poet Fest Fan Zone | Memorial Stadium
Get ready for the ultimate Homecoming celebration as Poet Fest takes over the Fan Zone! Join alumni, students, families, and friends for an unforgettable pregame experience filled with live music, food, spirited activities, and opportunities to reconnect with the Poet community.
Featuring live entertainment, alumni and affinity group activations, reunion celebrations, family-friendly activities, food and beverage experiences, and the excitement of seeing Poet football return to Memorial Stadium, Poet Fest is where the entire Whittier community comes together to celebrate.
Bring your Poet pride, gather your friends, and be part of the energy as we kick off a historic Homecoming game day!
5 p.m. | Poet Football Returns | Memorial Stadium
Be there for a historic moment as the Poets take the field for their first Homecoming football game in six years! Join generations of Whittier alumni, students, families, and friends as we fill Memorial Stadium with Poet pride and cheer on the next chapter of Whittier Athletics.
Planning in progress: Class of 1976 50th Reunion Celebration, Class of 1986 Reunion Celebration
10:30-1 p.m. | Campus Inn Brunch
Wrap up a wonderful weekend by joining fellow Poets and residential students before heading home. Pay at the door; open to all.
