You may think of the role of homecoming king and queen as largely a symbolic tradition. But, the 2018 Ohio State University Mansfield Homecoming King, Kidron Stamper, and Queen, Emma Park see receiving this honor as a wonderful leadership experience and believe it showcases the wonderful opportunities available to students on the Mansfield campus.
“I wasn’t expecting it, but it was really exciting,” says Stamper. “I loved being in Columbus and part of all of the activities.”
“Being a Buckeye is not about you or me, instead it’s about how we strive towards creating a positive impact on the society and the world,” says Park. “Being a part of the Buckeye family is a lifelong journey celebrating the greatness and success of The Ohio State University.”
On Friday, the Mansfield campus King and Queen were announced during the Coronation Ceremony in Columbus with a parade and pep rally. On Saturday, the court was announced at the Skull Session and presented on the field prior to the Ohio State football game. The court also included Justin Goeppinger, James Davis Sr., Alexxis Shull, and Ana Dimas.
Homecoming week began on the Mansfield campus with a list of events including meeting the court, a friendly game of dodgeball against faculty, staff and students, as well as the Homecoming cookout, campfire and Cornhole tournament.
“I was excited to represent the campus in Columbus and be recognized for my accomplishments,” Park explains proudly.
“My favorite part was getting to meet the grand marshal of the parade, Anthony Violi,” Stamper says.
Violi is an Ohio State Marching Band alumnus and was the center of one of the most sacred traditions at The Shoe. He dotted the “i” for the Buckeyes on September 22, 2018. He is a 100-year-old World War II veteran. He was a member of the band from 1937-1942.
“While we were waiting for the parade to start, we talked to him for a couple of minutes. He told us about World War II and his experiences. You really don’t get the opportunity to talk to anybody from that generation. He’s a true Buckeye, too!”
Park, a junior, is a middle childhood education major from Medina, Ohio. She is also a member of the Mansfield Mavericks women’s volleyball team and Club Ed.
Stamper is studying psychology and is also in his junior year. He is from Ontario, Ohio.
The new king and queen both work in the admissions department. Park is a buckeye ambassador while Stamper is a junior admissions counselor and the Mansfield Campus Board student representative for the 2018-19 school year.
About Ohio State Mansfield:
The Ohio State University at Mansfield offers an academic environment that’s challenging but supportive as students become part of an academic tradition that leads the way in shaping tomorrow’s world. Students discover world-class teaching minds passionate about connecting to other disciplines while discovering new ways to see the world. With access to Ohio State’s more than 200 majors, Ohio State Mansfield is where learning comes to life. Research, internships, education abroad and service learning opportunities prepare students for their careers in ways they never expected.