NW Missouri Times

The University has announced the candidates for the 2024 Homecoming royalty, with students able to vote from midnight on Monday, October 7 until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15. The king and queen will be revealed at the end of the Homecoming Variety Show on Thursday, October 17 at the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets for the show are priced at $5.

This year's Homecoming week is set for October 13-19 and will celebrate "A Century of Homecomings," marking the University's first celebration in 1924.

The candidates for king include Ben Bueneman from Ternopil, Ukraine and Wentzville, Missouri; Connor Gorman from Fort Scott, Kansas; Parker Ticknor from Monett, Missouri; Sal Bonadonna from Kansas City, Missouri; and Spencer Cupp from Platte City, Missouri.

Ben Bueneman said being a Bearcat means "making my mom proud who worked so hard to put me through college." Connor Gorman expressed that it has immersed him in a community fostering growth and opportunities. Parker Ticknor shared that being a Bearcat has profoundly shaped his life through involvement and leadership roles. Sal Bonadonna described it as having a family to come home to. Spencer Cupp emphasized community unity.

The queen candidates are Abigail Dewert from Union, Missouri; Callie Spunaugle from Lincoln, Missouri; Chloe DeVries from Red Oak, Iowa; Erin Frink from York, Nebraska; and McKenna Grimmer from Hannibal, Missouri.

Abigail Dewert mentioned finding a supportive community as part of being a Bearcat. Callie Spunaugle spoke about belonging to a legacy of tradition and excellence. Chloe DeVries noted having support to become one's best self as integral to being a Bearcat. Erin Frink highlighted feeling a sense of belonging within a large community. McKenna Grimmer pointed out not fearing opportunities due to strong support systems.

For more details on activities and tickets during Homecoming week, additional information is available online.