Hosted by The Citadel Alumni Association, The Citadel is looking back on its past weekend, which saw one of the biggest events on campus — Homecoming 2024.

While alumni of all ages returned to their alma mater, this year the Class of 1974 celebrated their milestone 50th reunion. Other classes that had milestone reunions included those ending in ‘4 and ‘9.

A twilight parade took place on Summerall Field on Friday, Nov. 8, honoring each branch of the U.S. military and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Homecoming festivities continued on Saturday, Nov. 9, beginning with open barracks, where families and friends had the opportunity to see their cadet’s room and enjoy a Pipe Band performance in each of the five barracks. Another highlight of the day included a performance by the Summerall Guards, allowing attendees to experience the silent precision drill in person.

Also on Saturday was a Homecoming jeep review parade, with The Citadel President Gen. Glenn Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79 taking review alongside outgoing president of The Citadel Alumni Association Norm Poole, Class of 1990.

Another big announcement was made during Homecoming 2024 — a new mascot, Bullseye, who will also be known as G4, will officially take on mascot duties in the spring semester. This also means the current mascot, G3, will retire in January. G3’s official name, Gen. Mike D. Groshon, honors Coach Mike D. Groshon, Citadel Class of 1976, who passed away in 2016 after caring for several generations of mascots. More updates will be announced on G4’s official arrival to campus as he steps into his new role.

Prints of photos from this year’s events will be available for purchase through The Citadel’s photo store; they will also be available for free digital download at the same link.

Citadel Alumni Award Winners

Distinguished Life Member – Col. Leo Mercado, USMC (Ret.), ’79

Col. Leo A. Mercado, USMC (Ret.), ‘79, is the Distinguished Life Member. He was chosen for his unwavering dedication to The Citadel, The Citadel Alumni Association (CAA), and the nation. Over a 30-year military career, Col. Mercado held numerous leadership roles, reflecting The Citadel’s values of Honor, Duty, and Respect. His impact extended beyond military service into a legacy of service to his alma mater, especially through his work with the Krause Center for Leadership & Ethics, where he championed initiatives like Leadership Day to foster service and community engagement among cadets.
As CAA President, Mercado’s decisive action preserved the association’s sublease of the Holliday Alumni Center, safeguarding financial stability for CAA programs and student aid. He played a vital role in resolving internal challenges, fostering a collaborative board culture. Col. Mercado’s contributions—marked by integrity, leadership, and loyalty—are a testament to his commitment to The Citadel and the enduring legacy he has shaped for future generations.

Honorary Life Member – Hank Fuller

Hank Fuller is the 2024 Honorary Life Member. Serving as Director of the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships for more than three decades, Fuller has been instrumental in advancing the college’s recruitment, retention, and graduation efforts. Colleagues and students alike attest to his dedication, noting his warm demeanor and steadfast commitment to finding financial solutions that enable students to pursue and complete their education at The Citadel. Since the early 1990s, Fuller’s work has directly supported countless students, helping to grow the college’s alumni community. His deep expertise and tireless service have left a lasting impact, shaping the success of The Citadel and the Citadel Alumni Association for generations to come.

Young Alumnus/a of the Year – Rachelle Riegerix, Ph.D., ’12

Dr. Rachelle C. Riegerix, ’12, was chosen as Young Alumna of the Year for her exceptional contributions as a federal civil servant and leader in environmental policy. Currently serving as a Science Advisor with the Council on Environmental Quality in the Executive Office of the President, Dr. Riegerix has played a crucial role in shaping national and international policies on environmental issues, particularly around plastic pollution. Previously, as a Physical Scientist at the EPA, she supported key initiatives like the National Recycling Strategy and contributed to the passage of the Save Our Seas 2.0 legislation. Her expertise in plastic lifecycle management and pollution prevention has positioned her as a recognized authority, contributing to Congressional testimonies and published research. Dr. Riegerix’s achievements include receiving the EPA Bronze Medal and Sustainable Materials Management Award in 2022 for her work addressing pollution along the Mississippi River. A true embodiment of The Citadel’s values of Honor, Duty, and Respect, she is an inspiring role model for cadets, exemplifying the impact of commitment and excellence in public service.

District Director of the Year – Bill Washo, Ph.D., ’71

Dr. William J. Washo, ’71, is the 2024 Citadel Club President of the Year for his exceptional dedication and leadership with the Fayetteville-Sandhills Area Citadel Club (FSACC). Under his guidance, FSACC has become one of the most active and impactful Citadel clubs, achieving Gold Star Status annually and setting the standard for alumni engagement in North Carolina and beyond. Washo’s leadership emphasizes consistency, inclusivity, and support for cadets and families. He has organized 17 successful events at Gates Four Golf and Country Club, offering a welcoming atmosphere with excellent service. His initiatives include free meals for cadets at every event, a reverent annual Muster featuring notable speakers, and the Order of the Sandhills Bulldog Award presentations. He has also helped elevate FSACC’s recruiting efforts by partnering with Allison Anderson, ’11, whose contributions led to her recognition as Young Alumna of the Year in Dr. Washo’s dedication to “Cadets First – Alumni Always” has solidified FSACC’s reputation as a model of Citadel Club excellence.