Pitt Homecoming 2025, in photos

The University’s Pittsburgh campus buzzed with Panther pride this week as Pitt alumni, students, staff and friends returned for Homecoming.

The weeklong celebration brought the Pitt community together for a series of spirited events — from long-standing traditions to fresh new gatherings, this year’s happenings offered something for everyone.

The excitement started off Oct. 20, when students, staff and faculty on the Pittsburgh campus joined forces to decorate doors, craft décor and vote for Spirit of Pitt nominees.

Alumni and guests were welcomed back with special gatherings throughout the week, including the Alumni Awards Celebration, which recognized six outstanding alumni, and the Ale to Pitt reception, which featured seven alumni- and staff-owned breweries.

Students and alumni connected throughout the week at events like Still Glowing Conversations, I Love Pitt Day and a decoration event that invited the Pitt community to add a creative touch to campus spaces.

Friday evening’s Blue and Gold Bash brought high energy to campus with carnival games, music and giveaways — all leading up to the weekend’s most dazzling spectacle: the annual fireworks and laser show illuminating the Cathedral of Learning.

On Saturday, fans filled Acrisure Stadium to cheer on the Panthers as they faced the North Carolina State Wolfpack.

During halftime, this year’s Spirit of Pitt awardees — undergraduates Sophia Chebli and Tumay Onat, both of the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, and graduate student Johanna Bezjak of the School of Law — were recognized on the field for their leadership, community service and embodiment of Panther pride.

The festivities culminated Saturday with decisive victory at Acrisure Stadium, where the Panthers extended their winning streak to four with a 53‑34 win over North Carolina State. Freshman quarterback Mason Heintschel set a school record with 423 passing yards, including an 84‑yard touchdown to Blue Hicks in the third quarter. The lighting of the Victory Lights capped another memorable Homecoming for the Pitt community.

Keep scrolling to see more highlights from the week’s celebrations.