The 2015 Homecoming theme “Spartans Take the World Stage” put a spotlight on the intellect, talent and strength of Spartans all over the world Sept. 28-Oct. 3.
Homecoming week also brought Spartans back to the East Lansing stage. Although, Homecoming at Michigan State University is more than just reminiscing about times spent walking through ivy-covered halls.
This year’s grand marshal of the parade on Oct. 2, 1955 MSU alumnus William David Brohn, said that homecoming is an honor, thrill and joy to attend, but also makes one aware of their responsibility as a Spartan.
“We are all responsible to be back home, and to give back what we can and when we can,” Brohn said.
As a top orchestrator, Brohn has arranged scores for some of the most popular shows on Broadway including “Miss Saigon,” “Ragtime” and “Wicked.” He won a Tony Award for Best Orchestration for “Ragtime” and has won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Orchestrations three times.
Brohn said his time spent at MSU was when he learned the basic platform upon which a music career is built by learning the fundamentals of music from great professors.
He said he learned who a true Spartan is.
“I think it leans more toward the thrifty, the one who makes the most use of what is at hand and who sacrifices for the greater good.”
Homecoming Court ambassador Aarean Wooten said she tries to make an impact on MSU for the greater good each and every day.
“It’s important to be aware of all of the things you can do on campus to help out,” Wooten said. “Even if it’s as small as starting a conversation with someone on the bus, it’s important to make an impact on campus.”
Homecoming Court ambassador Myya Jones said she loves being a representative of her community and the greater MSU community. Jones said she takes advantage of the experiences offered at MSU.
“I’ve traveled to four different countries since attending MSU,” Jones said. “I take advantage of the different opportunities we have here, because Spartans are global. Everywhere you go, you see a Spartan, you say ‘go green, go white,’ and you know the feeling of being a Spartan.”
The 'go green, go white' chant was said multiple times during the Homecoming football game on Oct. 3 against Purdue University. The Spartans won with a final score of 24-21.