‘Order of the Pack’ Returns to Centennial Bank Stadium Sept. 2

JONESBORO — Order of the Pack returns to full strength as the Arkansas State University campus tradition will be celebrated Thursday, Sept. 2. The 24th annual occasion, hosted by the Student Activities Board (SAB), will be in Centennial Bank Stadium. The gates will open at 7 p.m. and events start at 7:30 p.m. 

University Housing and SAB have partnered to host a cookout for students in Tailgate City outside the football stadium from 6-7 p.m. before the gates open. There will be hamburgers, hot dogs, and sweet treats to enjoy before the big pep rally. 

“I am excited for our new students to experience such an exciting and memorable event,” said Emily Hope, assistant director of student engagement. “This event wouldn’t be possible without all of the partnerships and collaborations throughout campus and we can’t wait to kick off the Red Wolf football season! Our SAB athletic engagement director Jayden Moody has been working on revamping Order of the Pack and has a stock full of surprises in store.”

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Order of the Pack was cancelled in 2020. Instead, SAB hosted HowlFest with live music, multiple food vendors, and bringing students together to celebrate the new school year. This year, everyone is asked to wear a mask while in the stadium if social distancing is not available. Student groups will be spaced as well throughout the stadium to assist with social distancing. 

Brandon Baxter of East Arkansas Broadcasting, the official broadcast partner of A-State, will serve as host for the event and will be joined by Moody to welcome students and assist with awards announcements. Also expected to speak are Chancellor Kelly Damphousse, Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Tom Bowen and Head Football Coach Butch Jones.

Different organizations can compete for awards, including three Golden Wolf Awards presented to the most outstanding registered student organization, residence hall, and fraternity and sorority life pairing. In addition, awards will go to students who win the following: best signs, loudest organization, best dressed organization, and the most outstanding organization. 

Order of the Pack is conducted annually to welcome a new class into the Red Wolves family. Alumni and friends are welcome to join A-State students in the stadium to re-live their own Order of the Pack experience. 

“Order of the Pack has been held all around campus,” continued Hope. “It has been held on the Heritage Plaza front lawn at the Reng Student Union, First National Bank Arena, and most frequently, at Centennial Bank Stadium. It is a great way to kick off football season by showcasing our A-State band, spirit squads, football team, and most importantly, bringing our student body together to celebrate our Red Wolves.”