Poole College’s annual Homecoming Porch Party and Parade is now a tradition for the Burgin family

The atmosphere and family-friendly focus – that’s what has been bringing the Burgin family back to campus each fall for Poole College’s Porch Party and Homecoming Parade Viewing event.

“It really seems to grow and get better each year,” said Karen Burgin ('99 business management/human resources). “I love the addition of the bluegrass band, plus the door prizes and photo booth, and kids’ activities are lots of fun,” she said in an email interview with Poole College communications.

She and her husband, Benjamin ('96 business management/operations management) met while students involved in Alpha Kappa Psi, the business fraternity based in the college.

“We love bringing our children to our alma mater and the place where we met, and it's fun to walk the halls of Nelson again – though they have changed quite a bit,” she said.

“I believe this was our fourth year in a row. We even came last year despite the parade being cancelled due to torrential rain, we enjoy it that much,” Karen Burgin said.

When asked what her children thought, she said, “Oh, they absolutely LOVE the parade. I think that is their favorite part of the evening, especially seeing Mr. Wuf and also all the candy that is thrown from the floats.

They also really enjoy the food. The Wolfpack cupcakes were a huge hit, and they had a great time with the glo sticks and bubbles that were given out this year.”

The Burgins also enjoyed seeing Karen’s best friend, fellow business management grad Danielle Kaspar ('99) who was Mr. Wuf’s driver in the parade this year and last.

Burgin has a message for other Poole College alumni: ‘Join us next year for great food, fellowship with other alumni and their families, and a prime parade viewing spot!”

In the photo are Karen Burgin with her children Ryland, age nine, and twins Dalton and Kailyn, age five, and nephew Luke Slack.