The University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) invites alumni, families, friends and members of the community to return to campus for Homecoming 2026, Thursday, Sept. 10 through Saturday, Sept. 12.
Alumni Homecoming Weekend is the perfect time to return to campus, reignite your Highland Cavalier spirit and reconnect with old friends. The three-day celebration features alumni gatherings, athletic competitions, the Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony, the Alumni Association Picnic and the crowning of the Homecoming Court.
Homecoming weekend begins with the UVA Wise Business Alumni Social at 5 p.m. in the Gatton Hospitality Suite inside the David J. Prior Convocation Center. At 7 p.m., fans can cheer on the Highland Cavaliers as UVA Wise Volleyball takes on Coker in the David J. Prior Convocation Center.
Friday morning begins with the Golden Cavaliers Brunch at 10:30 a.m. in the Chapel of All Faiths. The event will honor the Class of 1976, while previous Golden Cavalier classes from 1956-1975 are also invited to attend and welcome the newest honorees. Those planning to attend are asked to email alumni@uvawise.edu.
At 5 p.m., alumni can reconnect with old and new friends at the Alumni Homecoming Celebration at the Chancellor’s Residence, Lila Vicars Smith House.
The evening continues with UVA Wise Volleyball vs. Wingate at 7 p.m. in the David J. Prior Convocation Center as the Cavs take on the Bulldogs.
Saturday’s Homecoming festivities begin at 10 a.m. with the Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in the David J. Prior Convocation Center.
The 2026 Athletics Hall of Fame class includes:
- Kari Sparks Farmer ’07 — Volleyball
- Taylor Brandts Kelly ’18 — Softball
- Henry Potter ’08 — Football
- Melanie Reilly ’18 — Lacrosse
- Lee Clark — Head Men’s Basketball Coach
Following the induction ceremony, alumni and friends are invited to the Alumni Association Picnic at 11 a.m. in the David J. Prior Convocation Center parking lot.
Homecoming Saturday culminates with UVA Wise Football vs. Anderson at 2 p.m. at Carl Smith Stadium. Fans can cheer on the Highland Cavaliers as they face South Atlantic Conference foe Anderson, with the Homecoming Court being announced at halftime.
“Homecoming is one of my most favorite celebrations of the year. It reminds me that belonging to our alumni body means we share common experiences that bind us together throughout the decades. It's a time to reconnect, revisit our memories and together envision our alma mater into the future. We invite our alumni and families to come home, see old friends and make new ones!” says Valerie Lawson, UVA Wise vice chancellor of advancement and alumni engagement.
From reconnecting with classmates to celebrating the accomplishments of UVA Wise student-athletes and alumni, Homecoming 2026 offers something for every Highland Cavalier. UVA Wise looks forward to welcoming alumni and friends back to campus for a memorable weekend of tradition, fellowship and Cavalier pride.
Register now and make plans to return to campus for UVA Wise Homecoming 2026, Sept. 10-12.
Go Cavs Go!