2025 Homecoming Executives Highlight

Oklahoma Christian University’s preparation for this year’s homecoming is in full swing. The Talon interviewed the three leading executives in charge of the annual tradition. 

2025 Homecoming Director Mary Ellen Stolte said she is beyond excited to be this year’s executive director.

“It feels really special and a little surreal. I’ve looked up to so many people who have led Homecoming in the past, so getting to step into that role myself has been such an honor. It’s a big responsibility, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding to see all the hard work, creativity, and collaboration come together,” Stolte said. “I have had the honor of working with some truly incredible people and have loved watching how all the small details have come together beautifully. I am truly so grateful for my team, they have all made this Homecoming season a delight.”

Stolte revealed the theme this year is “OC on Broadway.” 

“We wanted something lively and full of personality, something that would let every club express themselves while still uniting everyone under one exciting idea,” Stolte said. “Broadway felt perfect because it celebrates performance, storytelling, and community, which are all things that make Homecoming so special. I also loved all of the design elements and how all the clubs could pick themes that fit their personalities well.”

Reaching beyond campus, the homecoming executive team is partnering with the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma (DSACO) for the annual philanthropy project 

“It has been so meaningful to connect with them and to give Homecoming a deeper purpose that goes beyond the week’s festivities,” Stolte said. “Getting the honor to work alongside DSACO has been wonderful and we are excited to see how that partnership plays into the week of Homecoming.”

Stolte said she is proud of how everything is coming together and is excited for the final reveal.

“I’m most looking forward to seeing everything come to life, the decorations, the shows, and the campus energy that fills the week. There’s nothing quite like watching months of hard work come together and seeing everyone enjoy what they’ve helped create,” Stolte said. “I’m also really excited to see how our partnership with DSACO impacts people and helps strengthen that sense of community. There have been countless hours and hard work poured into every single part of this week from the club directors and members to the executive team. I cannot reiterate enough how honored I feel to be a part of something so wonderful.”

Assistant Homecoming Director Zoe Burmaster said she loves being on the executive team, helping behind the scenes and watching things come to life.

“It is so fun to watch things start from the ground up. It is also fun to help the clubs create and facilitate their ideas,” Burmaster said. 

Burmaster said homecoming week will be a busy but exciting one.

“The week is filled with a lot of fun! Monday we have movie night, Tuesday is traditional carnival night, Wednesday is Homecoming Devo with DASCO, Thursday is traditional Musical night, Friday is Hoco Hype night, and Saturday we will have the Homecoming devo, parade, and then games and announce the winners,” Burmaster said.

Out of all the events, Burmaster said she is most excited for the parade.

“It is always my favorite event to see everyone’s float finished and be able to watch how proud each club is of their creation,” Burmaster said. “It is also where I see the most Oklahoma Christian pride.”

Nathaniel Whitehead said he is honored to be this year’s homecoming club coordinator.

“I love being able to communicate and work with all of the different clubs. I enjoy making new connections and relationships with each club director and being able to help them out with any questions or concerns they may have,” Whitehead said.

Although there have been some challenges along the way, Whitehead said he enjoys working with his team.

“Adapting to different problems that we didn’t anticipate is always challenging, but being a part of a team with Mary Ellen and Zoe makes it 1,000 times easier and fun to manage,” Whitehead said.

Whitehead said he is especially looking forward to the basketball games.

“I love seeing the clubs support our school sports while coming up with creative and entertaining ways to encourage our student-athletes,” Whitehead said.
Homecoming will take place the weekend of Nov. 7-8. To view the complete schedule, click here.