A More Meaningful Homecoming

Homecoming 2009 is underway at Old Dominion University and, with its tie to football for the first time in more than 60 years, there is a palpable excitement and energy on campus.

Of course, I am thrilled about the many events that will fill this week: basketball exhibition games, selection of a Homecoming King and Queen, a comedy show by "Cash Cab" host and former ODU student Ben Bailey, the pep rally and parade, a gala to honor our distinguished alumni, concert by Lupe Fiasco, and a host of student activities leading up to Saturday's gridiron match between ODU and North Carolina Central.

But it is a project, embraced by all segments of our university community, that best illustrates the spirit of Old Dominion and gives a tangible component to the idea of Homecoming.

Yesterday, I was joined by faculty, students, staff, alumni and community members to kick-off ODU's build of a Habitat for Humanity house, which will be located in neighboring Lambert's Point. We all got the opportunity to meet the Jones family, who will work alongside the many ODU volunteers over the next several weeks to build and then take ownership of the home, dubbed Monarch Manor.

LaShawn Jones, a single mother to daughters Deja, 17, and Dijon, 14, works at Opportunity Inc., a company that provides assistance to adults returning to school. Both LaShawn and Deja have plans to attend college next year.

In constructing a house, there are lessons for all of us to learn: the benefits of hard work, the joy that comes from helping another, and the key of education in a brighter future. What we are building, obviously, is so much more than a house.

Welcome to our community Jones family! Welcome home Monarchs!