Published on Show Me Mizzou Sept. 16, 2025
Each year, three Tigers lead the Mizzou Alumni Association’s student Homecoming Steering Committee, a 30-plus-member team that spends months planning one of the university’s most beloved traditions. As they gear up for the big weekend on September 27, we caught up with the tri-directors to talk campus spirit, surprising college moments and the songs that never miss.
What’s been the most meaningful part of your Homecoming experience so far?
Ryan Berardelli, Film Production and Communication, Mokena, Ill.
Being a part of something much bigger than myself and making an impact on so many people in the community.
Sara Kate Burnett, Journalism, Memphis, Tenn.
Seeing firsthand how Homecoming is such a positive force in building and sustaining our special campus culture. It touches and brings together so many different facets of our Mizzou community.
Blake Schrand, Business Management, O’Fallon, Mo.
On campus decorations night, seeing everyone come together through a tradition that our team put on was pretty cool.
What’s your favorite thing about Homecoming?
Berardelli: All the close friendships that I have made along the way.
Burnett: The excitement during the morning of the parade and seeing so many generations of Tigers come out to celebrate Mizzou!
Schrand: Seeing all the alumni reconnect through their love for Mizzou.
If your life had a three-word title, what would it be?
Berardelli: Adventure never stops.
Burnett: Made in Memphis.
Schrand: Flow with purpose.
Which class has made you think, “Yeah, this is why I’m here?”
Berardelli: Screenwriting
Burnett: Documentary Development taught by Robert Greene. The Murray Center for Documentary Journalism reminds me every day why our journalism school and documentary program are the best in the nation.
Schrand: Business Law.
Who’s your dream dinner guest, and what are you serving?
Berardelli: Betty White. I would serve a chicken and pesto pasta dish.
Burnett: Dolly Parton, and I would serve her sweet tea.
Schrand: Teddy Roosevelt, shrimp fried rice.
What’s something about college that turned out very different than you expected?
Berardelli: I did not expect to meet my best friends during Welcome Week freshman year — and I did just that.
Burnett: How the people you surround yourself with become your family.
Schrand: I thought getting involved would lead to fewer social events — then I realized involvement is social.
What’s the one show you’d force your friends to watch just so you can talk about it?
Berardelli: Severance.
Burnett: Veep always makes me laugh.
Schrand: The Sopranos. Let’s talk about it.
What’s your personal anthem — the one that hits every time?
Berardelli: “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus.
Burnett: “Glory of True Love” by John Prine.
Schrand: “Paper Planes” by M.I.A.
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