Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you should know that this week has been homecoming week. Medallions were found, routines have been stomped, royalty has been crowned and memories have been made.

Homecoming week began with the kick-off carnival last Monday. Several organizations on campus offered food and games outside of Kent Campus Center. Simpson College theatre was represented with fire dancing by Virginia Atwell, Molly Monk as a mime and tarot card readings. Nearby, the Kappa men were giving out free candy, cookies and root beer floats.

“The free root beer floats were delicious, and watching the fire dancing was really cool, too,” said senior Elizabeth Cozart. “I’m always so impressed watching talent like that.”

CAB provided free cotton candy and popcorn while a long line formed for CAB’s spray paint tattoos.

As students played water pong, Frisbee and wandered around the carnival, they had the chance to meet the Simpson Squirrel. The new unofficial mascot could be seen mingling with students and taking pictures.

Throughout the week, students were given hints on where to find the Simpson medallion. On Wednesday, the competition ended when freshman Adam Sandquist found the medallion under the third row of the tennis court bleachers.

Friday was one of the most eventful nights of the week. The night began with Yell Like Hell, the annual stomp competition. Several groups, sororities and SAE performed for the judges. Competing groups were not allowed to use music and had to choreograph their own moves using only their bodies and chants. Ultimately, the judges gave the best routine to SAE.

“My favorite part of homecoming week was Yell Like Hell because it’s such a unique tradition and I’ve never been to anything quite like it,” said senior homecoming chair Tori Halloran. “I’ve always wanted the opportunity to take part in it, and this year I finally able to perform with the dance club.”

At the end of the night, seniors Molly Monk and Jacob McLain were announced as homecoming queen and king. After feeling slightly confused, Monk said she was excited about becoming queen.

“Being on court with so many of my friends and one of my roommates is a highlight of my senior year,” she said.

After Yell Like Hell, students made their way to the Black Box for Dance Like Hell with iExperia as entertainment. iExperia combined DJs and multiple cirque-style performers including an aerialist.

On Saturday afternoon, Simpson students, faculty and families joined together to tailgate before the game. Spirits were high and everyone was excited as they made their way to the game. Simpson played a great game, but sadly Dubuque won 31-24.

“Win or lose, I’m still proud of our team,” said Halloran. “They played a great game and it was wonderful to see how many Simpson students turned out to support the team.”