A Celebration of Leadership and Ragin’ Cajun Pride
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s 2026 Homecoming Court is shining a spotlight on students whose leadership, campus involvement and service have helped shape the university community. Emily Lamkin and Grayson Kervin were crowned homecoming queen and king during halftime of the Ragin’ Cajuns’ homecoming football game against Arkansas State University on October 3 at Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium.
From a Christian faith perspective, the recognition offers an opportunity to celebrate not only achievement, but also the importance of serving others with humility, dedication and integrity. First Peter 4:10 encourages believers to use their gifts to serve one another. That message reflects the spirit of students who contribute their time and talents to strengthen their campus and community.
Honoring Students Who Make a Difference
Lamkin, a senior political science major from Metairie, was nominated by the Student Government Association (SGA). Kervin, a senior accounting major from Mandeville, was nominated by the Alpha Delta Pi sorority.
The other members of the 2026 Homecoming Court are Tafari Beard Jr., Aliysha Butler, Kaiden Harris, Cye Hebert, Thomas Moody, Onyeka Nwaezeapu, Trinity Stewart and Gabrielle St. Pierre.
The court recognizes students who have demonstrated leadership and involvement throughout their college careers. According to the university, homecoming has been a longstanding tradition for more than 80 years. Originally an all-female court, the tradition expanded in 2018 to include male students, reflecting a broader representation of the university’s student population.
The selection process includes nominations from registered student organizations and athletic teams, followed by interviews and evaluations conducted by alumni volunteers and student leaders.
Emily Lamkin: A Full-Circle Moment of Belonging
For Lamkin, being named homecoming queen represented a meaningful milestone in her college journey. As SGA president, a member of the Tri Sigma sorority and a participant in SOUL Camp, she has built connections across campus through leadership and service.
Lamkin recalled that homecoming during her freshman year helped her feel that UL Lafayette was where she belonged. Years later, receiving the crown brought that experience full circle.
She encouraged students to embrace campus activities even if they have not yet held leadership positions. Her journey demonstrates how involvement in organizations, student government and university traditions can help students develop confidence and discover opportunities to serve.
Her advice also echoes Galatians 6:9, which encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good. Small steps of involvement can lead to meaningful relationships, personal growth and opportunities to make a difference.
Grayson Kervin: Leadership Through Teamwork
Kervin, a senior accounting major, serves as SGA treasurer and Interfraternity Council president. He has also participated in Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and the Student Orientation Staff.
For Kervin, the announcement was an emotional surprise, made even more memorable by hearing his fraternity brothers cheering from across the stadium as his parents celebrated in the stands.
His university experience has taught him the importance of communication, organization and motivating others. He also highlighted the teamwork behind homecoming traditions, including the late nights spent decorating fraternity parade floats.
Kervin encouraged future court applicants to put their best foot forward and remember that representing the university is a responsibility as well as an honor.
Philippians 2:4 reminds Christians to look beyond their own interests and consider the interests of others. That principle speaks to the value of leadership grounded in cooperation, encouragement and service.
A Tradition That Brings Community Together
UL Lafayette’s homecoming celebration includes a parade, fashion show, talent show, step show, football game and other activities that bring students, alumni and supporters together.
Beyond the festivities, the Homecoming Court highlights the many ways students contribute to campus life. Their stories remind the community that leadership is not defined by a title alone, but also by the willingness to participate, encourage others and serve faithfully.
CAST NEWS Christian News Network congratulates the 2026 Homecoming Court and celebrates the students, families, organizations and mentors who help young people grow into responsible leaders.
A Prayer for the Students and University Community
Heavenly Father, thank You for the students of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and for the gifts, talents and opportunities You have placed in their lives. Bless Emily Lamkin, Grayson Kervin and every member of the 2026 Homecoming Court as they continue their academic journeys and leadership responsibilities.
Give them wisdom to make good decisions, humility in recognition and compassion for those around them. Strengthen the families, faculty, mentors and student organizations that encourage and support them.
Lord, guide students who are searching for friendship, belonging or a sense of purpose. Help them discover their gifts and find meaningful ways to serve their communities. May the university remain a place where respect, integrity, fellowship and opportunity flourish.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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