The University of Arkansas has a rich tradition of electing a few individuals each year to serve on the Homecoming Court. Registered Student Organizations can nominate up to three students to apply. The Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow organization nominated Katie Gardner, who was named Homecoming Queen for 2020.

     “After the initial application, the top 20 females and top 20 males were selected,” Gardner said. “We had to interview with a staff, faculty and alumni panel, and they narrowed it down to 12 of each.”

     After a final interview, the top 7 males and females were selected to serve on the Homecoming Court. Students across the University of Arkansas campus then voted on these individuals to select the queen and king. The process can be challenging, especially through COVID-19.

     “Everything was virtual up until the very end. The announcement was in-person with a limited attendance,” Gardner said. “In past years, the candidates would have more face-to-face interactions with the campus at various events, but this year our campaigns took place almost entirely on social media and video calls.”

     Homecoming is a longstanding staple on the Hill. It’s a recognizable tradition that will always have a place at the U of A. “It reminds us why we chose Arkansas to begin with, and how we continue to be a Razorback each day,” Gardner said. “Traditions of community, legacies and pride in bonds that connect us continue when the events, decorations and physical celebrations don’t. The U of A is a special place, and Homecoming is an opportunity to reminisce the place we will always be able to call home.”

      Gardner has been a member of ACT, her sponsor organization, since she was a freshman. “It was special to me to represent our club and its members in the Homecoming process,” Gardner said. “I could not and would not be here without the support of my family of friends and amazing advisors.”

     As an agricultural communications and agricultural business double major, she also represented the Bumpers College.

     “Bumpers will always hold a special place in my heart, because that’s where I found my home on campus,” Gardner said. “We may be a smaller college, but we are capable of doing big things together.”

     Gardner said that the best part of the process was being able to celebrate with her family and friends when the announcement was made.

     “I was allowed to bring three members from my RSO along with a few family members to a socially distanced and masked pep-rally in the Greek Theatre,” Gardner said. “When my name was announced, I could hear them cheering so loud and running to them afterward for hugs was so exciting. The best part was getting to share it with the friends and family who have consistently been by my side for the past 3.5 years, encouraging me every step of the way.”

     This accomplishment is something she’s honored to share with others that have come before her.

     “Being named Homecoming Queen was incredibly exciting, and it’s such an honor to represent the University of Arkansas in this special celebration,” Gardner said. “Past Homecoming Queens, including some of AECT’s own, have been women that I’ve looked up to as leaders and role models on campus, so sharing the title with them is very special.”

     The process of running for Homecoming Queen may seem daunting, but that doesn't mean that you won’t succeed.

     “There is a support network here in AECT that will always have your back and help with prepping for applications and interviews,” Gardner said. “The process allows you to showcase your accomplishments and commitment to campus involvement, so look at it as an opportunity to tell your story and why you are proud to be a Razorback.”

     ACT also nominated Alison Creasey for the Homecoming process. She was in the top 12 finalists for Homecoming Court. Creasey is a senior majoring in agricultural communications.