CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The month of October is homecoming season for many colleges and universities nationwide.
It's a time for students, staff members and alumni to rock their school gear while honoring the schools' culture and legacy.
Charlotte's only historically Black colleges and university, Johnson C. Smith University chose "I am Smith" as its 2023 homecoming theme.
"I am Smith" defines how every Golden Bull, past and present, are keeping the legacy and stories of JCSU alive for generations to come, according to the university.
The theme further spotlights the unity and oneness of the JCSU family and their impact across the Charlotte community.
Alums like Peggy Lide say "I am Smith" accurately defines their university.
Lide serves as the Luv-A-Bulls cheerleading coach.
During the homecoming games, the current cheer team and alumni Luv-A-Bulls cheer together for the football crowds.
"It's a great time seeing them all come back," Lide says.
Lide says the unity seen during the performance echoes the "I am Smith" theme.
"We're a family," Lide said.
Lide knows from experience the importance of having a support system during the college years.
"I did not want to stay when I first got here. I cried and I cried. I had a home girl, did not even know she went here. She came to my room [and told me] get out of this room. I met so many alums, they were my peers at that time, fell in love. I went home only for holidays and stayed here. Met my husband here," Lide said.
Lide has enjoyed being a coach and role model for her university's cheer team.
Lide and others hope the next time someone attends a JCSU homecoming or event, they see each part of the experience, from the band to the cheerleaders, as an integral part of JCSU's identity and history.
"I'm a proud Golden Bull," Lide said.