Southern Arkansas University, in partnership with the City of Magnolia and Columbia County, has announced the eighth annual Blue & Gold Day on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the SAU Alumni Center.

On this day, the Magnolia community is encouraged to wear blue and gold to support SAU. Community members are invited to come out and enjoy a great evening of fellowship amongst Magnolia citizens and SAU students.

The SAU and Magnolia High School spirit squads and marching bands will collaborate to deliver an exciting, spirit-filled pep rally at 6:00 p.m.

“Blue and Gold Day is one of SAU’s most exciting traditions, and we’re excited to celebrate with everyone,” said SAU President Dr. Bruno Hicks. “It’s a great way for new students to connect with high schoolers, community members, and fellow Muleriders while experiencing the SAU spirit. We can’t wait to see everyone in blue and gold, enjoying the energy, the fun, and the beauty of our campus!”

“It’s that time of year when all seems to get back to normal; students are back on campus, and all seems right in Magnolia,” remarked John Ward, superintendent of the Magnolia School District. “Blue and Gold Day has become the event that brings us all together as one community.”

The free event will feature fun activities for the whole family, including photo opportunities and bounce houses. Visitors will have the chance to meet student-athletes, listen to local marching bands, enjoy free food, meet SAU’s mascots, and watch the SAU Rodeo Team show off their roping skills.

Students new to Magnolia will have the chance to visit with businesses and organizations in the Magnolia community, find a church home, and sign up for door prizes. To register to be a vendor, visit www.saualumni.com/bgday. Vendor registration closes on Friday, August 15.

Schedule of Events:

• 9:00 a.m. – Vendors begin setting up booths
• 5:00 p.m. – SAU students arrive at the SAU Alumni Center
• 6:00 p.m. – Pep Rally – MHS & SAU Collaboration
  Remarks from Mayor Parnell Vann, Mr. John Ward, and Dr. Bruno Hicks
  Performance by MHS and SAU Spirit Squads and Bands
• 7:00 p.m. – Event ends

For more information, call the Office of Alumni Relations at (870) 235-4079 or email Je’Len Berry at jrberry@saumag.edu.