UNCSA celebrates 60 years of artistry at Homecoming
UNCSA Homecoming: Family & Alumni Weekend returned to Winston-Salem this fall, bringing together alumni, Pickle Parents, families, students, faculty and staff for a weekend of creativity and connection.
This year’s gathering carried special meaning as UNCSA celebrated 60 years since opening its doors. From its beginning, the school’s story has been defined by people who believe in the power of the arts—and that same spirit filled the campus once again. Friday’s events included many pre-Homecoming festivities with conservatory open houses, school meetups around town and a film screening with an alumni Q&A, setting the tone for a weekend of connection and celebration.
Relive the magic of Homecoming 2025 below.
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Golden Pickles Reception
The weekend opened with a nod to the legacy of UNCSA’s earliest graduates. Alumni who earned their diplomas 50 or more years ago — affectionately known as the Golden Pickles — were welcomed to a private reception hosted by Chancellor Brian Cole at his residence. Guests shared stories from the school’s early days, reconnecting with classmates and reflecting on how UNCSA has grown over the decades while keeping its original spirit intact.
Block Party, Parade and Circus
Saturday afternoon brought one of Homecoming’s most beloved traditions: the parade. Pickle flags waved proudly as students, families and alumni marched through campus with homemade signs and creative accessories. The parade led into Film Village, where the celebration kept going strong.
Earlier in the day, the Homecoming Block Party behind Artist Village buzzed with color, sound and movement. Guests of all ages joined in for rock climbing, lawn games, student organization booths, tie-dyeing and music from a DJ. The festivities capped off with a high-energy performance by Circus Evo, founded and directed by Design & Production alumnus Houston Odum ('15).
Alumni Beaux Arts Ball
When the sun went down, the celebration moved downtown for the Alumni Beaux Arts Ball. Hosted at the Millennium Center, the event lived up to its reputation as a dance party like no other. Alumni from across the decades came together to eat, drink and dance the night away.
Alumni Brunch & Panel
The weekend concluded with reflection and inspiration at the Alumni Brunch and Panel. Graduates from each of the five conservatories shared how their arts training shaped their careers—many describing how it empowered them to become entrepreneurs or transition into new fields, such as law and higher education.
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February 25, 2026