UWSP community and alumni come together at Homecoming Hotspot
The Pointer photo/Gwen Pabich
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Alumni Association hosted the annual Homecoming Hotspot on Oct. 5 in Goerke Park. This pre-game event invites community participation on campus.
This year’s events included 90FM’s live radio show, a DJ, games and alumni reunions. UWSP alumni, current students and community members gathered for the activities and enjoyed diverse food options from home-cooked soul food to Thai from local food trucks.
Another event that took place at the Hotspot was the Spud Bowl, which promotes local agriculture and awards scholarships. On the sidelines they handed out free baked potatoes and French fries.
Stephanie Pointer, a retired UW-Stevens Point mascot, made her first public appearance since retirement in 2013. She was at the Hotspot alongside Stevie Pointer to take photos with students and community members.
The Hotspot drew community members celebrating Maggie Beeber, who has been an educator and mentor in the School of Education for the last 36 years. She plans to retire in spring 2025.
Jenny Knade, a 2013 graduate with a degree in early childhood education, is a teacher in Stevens Point. She attended the Hotspot to celebrate Maggie Beeber’s retirement.
“Maggie’s support and encouragement was one of the things that really made sure that I finished and finished well,” Knade said.
Local Alumni Board member Deb Dorshorst, a 1980 graduate with a degree in communications, loved her time at Point. After graduating and starting her career, she found herself back in Stevens Point and working for the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy, located at the UWSP at Wausau campus.
“It’s just one way for me to give back,” Dorshorst said on how she became involved at the Homecoming Hotspot. “I think it’s just a great way for the community to get together, not only the college students but alumni and the community.”
Mayor Mike Wiza, also a UWSP alum, enjoyed reconnecting with old friends at the Hotspot. He also appreciates the university’s impact on the community.
“I think most people understand what an integral part the university is to our community,” Wiza said.
The Homecoming Hotspot emphasized the strong ties between the university and the community.
Gwen Pabich
News Reporter
