COLUMBUS — Two area students have been named to the Ohio State University’s homecoming court.
Craig Berning, of Anna, and Mikayla Bodey, of St. Paris, are among the 24-member court. The king and queen will be crowned Saturday during the OSU/Rutgers football game.
Berning, a senior majoring in agribusiness and applied economics, is an ambassador with the College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. He is also member of College of Food, Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Student Council; Edward S. Beanie Drake Student Leadership Endowment Board; FarmHouse Fraternity; and Undergraduate Student Government.
“Being a Buckeye is about tradition, opportunity, and excellence. It’s about celebrating the roots from which we have grown and the rich history of Buckeyes from years past. It’s about providing a lifetime opportunity to be a part of a diverse and global community and to continually learn and grow through that community. It’s about harnessing our passions, talents, and experiences to give back to those communities and to be the difference makers in the world,” said Berning of what it means to be a Buckeye.
Bodey is a senior majoring in public affairs. She is a member of John Glenn Civic Leadership Council; Ohio 4-H Foundation Board; Sphinx Senior Class Honorary; Undergraduate Student Government Senator; and Undergraduate Student Government.
“Every autumn, there is that perfect fall day on campus. I’m always sure to take the long walk to breathe in the fresh air and look around. Classes are releasing for the weekend, leaves are gently falling on the brick walkway, and the sun is lowering behind Thompson Library. In these moments, I begin to realize that this is my forever home. The Ohio State University is so much more than an institution, but a feeling of pride, honor, and tradition. As I near the end of the long walk, my chest raises higher in pride for my university. Ten years from now, I know I will be able to replay the sights and sounds of an Oval walk with equal excitement and satisfaction. Time and change will surely show,” said Bodey of what it means to be a Buckeye.
Court members are chosen based on their leadership qualities, spirit, integrity, and achievement through their contributions and involvement at Ohio State. The Court selection process begins with a paper application. Based on application scores and GPA, individual interviews are offered and conducted by OSU faculty, staff, and alumni. The scores from the paper application and interview are combined with the student body vote, and the court is announced.
Court members then volunteer and serve as ambassadors during Welcome Week and Homecoming Week, prior to a student body vote and announcement of the homecoming queen and king.
Homecoming events include the OSU Black Alumni Society Reunion on Thursday, Sept. 29, at 6 .m. at the Agriculture Administration Building; the homecoming parade on Friday, Sept. 30, at 6 p.m.; and the Alpha Psi Veterinary Fraternity Alumni Homecoming on Saturday, Oct. 1, at 8 a.m at the College of Veterinary Medicine, 1200 Coffey Road, Columbus.
After the parade on Friday, a pep rally will be held at the Ohio Union.
This is the 104th homecoming event at the college.
