Homecoming 2024: ‘Dare to Dream’
The University of Miami's 2024 Alumni Weekend and Homecoming, themed "Dare to Dream," blends tradition while encouraging the next generation of Canes to make their mark as the University approaches its centennial. Led by Homecoming Executive Committee chair Sara Ebrahimi, this year's celebration is all about bold ideas, unity, and creativity.
Ebrahimi, who has been involved in Homecoming since attending her first Hurricane Howl at age 5, feels a profound connection to the event.
"Homecoming embodies unity," she said, noting that it sparks excitement and belonging among students and alumni. For her, leading the planning process has fostered a deep connection, especially working alongside passionate student leaders who share a love for the U.
Under her leadership, more than 50 student organizations have come together, with each event of the week planned by a student committee dedicated to fostering unity on campus.
Vice chair Aris Montero, a senior double majoring in creative advertising and communication studies, has played an essential role overseeing three key subcommittees: Opening Ceremonies and Spirit Day, Alma Mater, and Marketing. For Montero, Homecoming is all about tradition and pride.
"It's a time when Canes from all walks of life come together under the shared pride of being part of the U," Montero said. Her favorite part of planning was crafting the committee's version of the alma mater and designing event materials, efforts that reflect her passion for creativity and pride in the University.
Student leaders like Corinne Kelly, who serves on the Opening Ceremonies and Spirit Day subcommittee, and Nik Howell, chair of the Sponsorship and Spirit Tree subcommittee, bring their unique talents and perspectives to the celebration. Kelly, in her second year on the committee, finds personal fulfillment in organizing events like Hurricane Howl, a community favorite. "Having the privilege of planning part of Homecoming is so rewarding," she said, "especially seeing the impact on the UM and Miami community."
For Howell, Homecoming represents family and unity. His role involves securing sponsors and planning the Spirit Tree event, which he finds meaningful. His favorite memory from the planning process was the retreat with Homecoming Executive Committee members, where they bonded over shared traditions and aspirations for the big week.
One of the core elements of this year's celebration is its theme, "Dare to Dream." According to Zuri Greenlee, a senior majoring in exercise physiology who oversees the Participation and Outreach and Organized Cheer subcommittees, the theme was inspired by a spontaneous comment from committee member Hanna Ebrahimi.
"One day, [Hanna] said 'Dare to Dream,' and it just stuck," Greenlee recalled. The theme encapsulates the forward-thinking vision of the University, daring students to imagine what lies ahead as it approaches its centennial.
For Greenlee, Homecoming is a time when the entire University family—students, alumni, and faculty—comes together to celebrate their shared Canes pride.
"It's the most unique experience we have every year," she said. Her favorite part of the process has been connecting with organizations at team meetings, a reminder that each small step brings the community closer to making their Homecoming dreams a reality.
Here is a full list of events for students, faculty and staff members, and alumni and friends to attend:
Friday, Oct. 18
Monday, Oct. 21
Tuesday, Oct. 22
Wednesday, Oct. 23