Gumbo Ya Ya, sponsored by the Campus Activities Board (CAB), was cooking Tuesday as people lined up to taste the free gumbo in the Student Union Park.

President John L. Crain and current Homecoming King Chris McKinley and Queen Jenee Ratelle started off Gumbo Ya Ya by cutting a cake that was centered on this year’s Homecoming theme, “Roomie Takes a Roadtrip.” McKinley spoke afterward about his time as Homecoming King.

“It’s been a wonderful experience. I’ve been very humbled by Southeastern’s choice to let me represent them as Homecoming King,” said McKinley.  “I’m ready to pass on the torch so that somebody else’s dreams can come true.”

Throughout the Student Union Park, tables were filled with students eating free gumbo and any other food item provided.  Along with the cake, green, yellow and white cupcakes were offered to those with a sweet tooth.

“It tastes better because it’s free,” said Christina Tiberi, a junior majoring in history.

CAB also provided entertainment in the form of inflatables.  A pitching game, basketball hoops and a bull-riding machine added to the laid-back mood that filled the park.

Organizations from around campus were set up along the sidewalk to spread the word about their group and offer food and fun to those who passed.  Delta Sigma Theta cooked funnel cakes, Black Student Union made cotton candy and Phi Mu offered everyone a chance to “Pie a Phi.”

“It’s great to see when everyone comes out, especially the organizations, to support Gumbo Ya Ya,” said Kyla Ester, a senior social work major.

The President for the Student Government Association (SGA) Luke Holloway presented the 2011 Homecoming Court and named the winners for the door decorating and sheet sign competition.

For the door decorating contest, the Division of Extended Services won first with University Advancement coming in second and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs placing third.

The sheet sign competition was won by the group of Sigma Sigma Sigma, Theta Xi and Sigma Gamma Rho.  Phi Mu and Delta Tau Delta placed second.  Third place was a tie between Kappa Sigma and the group of Hall Council and University Housing.

For more information about Gumbo Ya Ya, contact CAB by phone at 985-549-3805 or by email at [email protected].  If you would like more information on the winners during Homecoming 2011, check out the “Event Winners” board outside of SGA’s office on the second floor of the Student Union.