By Pete Rosenbery
CARBONDALE, Ill. —There will be plenty of Dawgs running loose during the Homecoming 2026 Parade through downtown Carbondale beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17. Southern Illinois University Carbondale honors 12 former Saluki mascots who donned the costume between the early 1990s and 2018. They’ll be serving as grand marshals.
“We wanted to recognize the students who have played such an important role in creating the traditions and school spirit we know today,” said Alisa Diaz, a graduate assistant in SIU’s Office of Student Engagement. “Student involvement has always been a huge part of what makes SIU special, and our former Saluki mascots and Homecoming court are a reflection of that. These are students and alums who have dedicated their time to making a difference on campus, and we want to celebrate not only their involvement, but also the legacy of Saluki Pride they continue to carry forward.”
Making “Decades of the Dawg: 75 Years of Saluki Pride” Homecoming even more special are the returning alumnae who helped cheer Saluki teams, energize fans and delight children through the years — our mascots. The 12 former Saluki mascots will be aboard a tram for the parade and will join in on other festivities throughout the day.