On a crisp, cold night, two students were chosen to represent the university as the 2012 Homecoming King and Queen – Brandon Nettles and Shawndreka Gatlin.
After a fun-filled week of events and ceremonies, Nettles and Gatlin were announced at halftime as the students to succeed Jordan Leggett and Jacy Carpenter.
“One of the greatest experiences of my life,” said Nettles. “My emotions are everywhere; I can’t even control myself right now. It’s been a great experience.”
As their names were announced, both jumped for joy. Their excitement and the crowd’s cheering highlighted a busy week for the Homecoming court.
“I’m at a loss for words,” said Gatlin. “Shocked, excited, happy and I just love Southeastern so much. I’m really glad I have the opportunity to represent my school.”
Gatlin, a fashion merchandising major from New
Orleans, is attending Southeastern as her third university. However, she loves her university and cannot wait to graduate with a Southeastern degree.
“As soon as I got to campus, I loved it here,” said Gatlin. “I would never leave it. I’m graduating from here. I will be a Southeastern alumni on May 18.”
Gatlin would like to thank her mom and dad for their support through Homecoming week. She is also heavily involved on campus, from president of the Southeastern Chapter of NAACP, a member of the Student Government Association as well as a recipient of the Green “S” Award. She was also an Orientation Leader and gave all of her organizations mention after her crowning.
“I have never been involved on any other campus as much as I have on this one,” said Gatlin. “I could not have done this without anyone. I love the students so much.”
Nettles is from Baton Rouge, La. and came to Southeastern in 2009. He is a member of the Kappa Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and is a communication major. He was also an Orientation Leader with Gatlin.
“I just love this school so much,” said Nettles. He expressed his gratitude towards his family and fraternity as well as his fellow Orientation Leaders.
The Homecoming court went from event to event during their week. Gatlin expressed that even though they were busy, the court could not have had more fun.
“It’s been really great,” said Gatlin. “We’ve been able to meet with alumni, bond with other members of the Homecoming court and talk to different people. We get to learn the ins and outs of what people during Homecoming go through and it’s just been really fun.”
The week of Homecoming went as planned for a second year in a row thanks to clear skies. The unexpected temperature drop the day of the football game was eased with blankets for the court. Despite the football team’s loss, the court had many experiences they will not soon forget.
With another year gone, Homecoming has made memories for a pair of students, whose experience from organizations and willingness for Southeastern will help them as they represent their university.
“I’m really, really, really excited and I’m thankful that I got to take part in this,” said Gatlin.