Campbell University welcomed alumni, families and friends home Oct. 16-17 for a Homecoming weekend filled with reunions, recognition and a victory by the nationally ranked Campbell football team.
“There’s no place like the Creek in October,” said director of alumni engagement, Shelby Howard ’20. “Homecoming means so much to our alumni that hundreds of us were willing to brave the inclement weather for the journey back home. I feel very lucky to call home a place that draws so many people back to it year after year, even when our plans change.”
Golden Club Induction Lunch
The festivities began Friday with the Golden Club Induction Luncheon in the Oscar N. Harris Student Union. Celebrating alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago, the gathering gave alumni a chance to reconnect and share memories from their time at Campbell. Warren Basket ’76 and Carolyn Brooks ’76 were formally inducted into the Golden Club, each receiving a medallion and certificate to celebrate 50 years since graduation.
Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner
The celebration continued Friday evening with the Distinguished Alumni Dinner, honoring Stan Cole ’87, Rev. Dr. Stephanie C. Holmes ’94 and W. Brooks Matthews ’76, M.Ed. ’80. Family, friends and members of the campus community gathered in the Student Union Ballroom to recognize the honorees’ professional achievements, service and commitment to their communities.
Cole was recognized for nearly four decades of service to Campbell Athletics, sharing stories from student-athletes, coaches and alumni while connecting generations of Fighting Camels. He reflected on the relationships that helped him find his place at Campbell and shaped his career. He also recognized his wife, Claudia, whom he met nearly 40 years ago to the day as an undergraduate student.
“I’m truly grateful for all the people who’ve crossed my path over the years,” Cole said. “They are the reason I stand in front of you today.”
Holmes was honored for her work as an educator, author, conselor and advocate supporting autistic individuals and neurodiverse families. She shared how her path shifted from plans for law school to a calling shaped by her faith and her experience supporting her daughter.
“Never in a million years did I think I would end up in autism advocacy,” Holmes said. “Everything I did, and my husband and I did, was for our daughter.”
Matthews was recognized for his decades of service to education in Harnett County, including roles as a teacher, coach, school administrator and superintendent. He recalled growing up around campus while his mother served three Campbell presidents, sharing memories of the people who inspired his lifelong connection to the University.
“I’ve been blessed to have my life shaped by Campbell University and the Christian educators who gave their life’s work for the mission of this institution,” Matthews said.
Alumni Block Party
Rain moved Saturday’s Alumni Block Party indoors, but it didn’t dampen the Homecoming festivities as more than 400 people gathered in the Oscar N. Harris Student Union. Live music by Bantum Rooster, a photo booth and refreshments from Sunset Slush and Creek Coffee helped set the scene for alumni, families and friends. Attendees also picked up the official 2026 Homecoming T-shirts.
University President Dr. William M. Downs, head football coach Braxton Harris and newly-appointed Director of Athletics Corey Jenkins addressed the crowd, building excitement for the afternoon’s football game. Guests also visited with representatives from schools and units across the University and local community.
Live camels greeted visitors outside under a tent while food trucks, including Curbside Cravins, Holy Fries and Tacos Way, provided plenty of options for guests.
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A Homecoming Victory
The excitement carried over to Barker-Lane Stadium, where No. 16 Campbell defeated Towson 24-20. The Fighting Camels rallied from a 13-10 halftime deficit and prevented Towson from scoring on its final four possessions to secure the Homecoming win. The Camels moved to 6-1 overall and 3-0 in CAA play, matching the program’s best start and setting a program record with six wins over FCS opponents.
Help shape next year’s Homecoming
Did you join us for Homecoming? We’d love to hear what you enjoyed and how we can make next year even better. Please complete the Homecoming 2026 Feedback Form by Dec. 1 and share your experience with us.