TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — After what seemed like forever for many students, Indiana State University’s homecoming festivities were back in full swing this weekend after a two year hiatus.
Thousands of people lined the streets of Wabash Avenue Saturday to celebrate ISU’s homecoming weekend, starting with their annual parade. This year’s parade was led by ISU athlete Noah Malone, who won a gold and two silver medals in this year’s Paralympic Games in Tokyo.
After becoming legally blind at 12 years old, Malone said leading a parade where everyone knows who he is is something he never imagined.
“I would always like to be a grand marshal of any parade. It’s exciting for sure,” Malone said. “I’m really grateful for the for the opportunities that come from Tokyo. So I can’t even put it into words.”
The event was the university’s first homecoming celebration since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ISU Alumni Association Executive Director Rex Kendall said they’ve been looking forward to this weekend all year.
“For the alums to come back to the largest campus event that we have annually,” Kendall said. “An exciting opportunity for folks to be back. We started in January really putting the final touches on the event.”
Kendall added that homecoming is not only great for alumni and current students, but prospective students as well.
“Alums and friends and students interacting at Memorial Stadium and on campus at the parade, that does give you a sense of excitement and gives them a sense of pride about what it’s going to be like to be a Sycamore,” Kendall said.
For anyone who may be disabled or struggling in life, Malone said he has a special message.
“I feel like if you have big dreams you’re winning right there. If you have something you’re motivated for. Something that inspires you and something that keeps you going,” Malone explained. “Even if you have a disability or whatever the case may be then I feel like that’s the thing you reed need to strive for then if you’re inspired you can do anything else you want.”
