Stronger Together
Red and White Week at NC State
For Alan Porch, business manager for the department of mathematics and Chair Elect for the UNC System Staff Assembly, Red and White Week is about far more than football and fanfare. It’s about the people – the relentless dedication of the Pack – that makes NC State what it is.
With 19 years of wearing red and white, Porch has witnessed how the university’s largest celebration of school spirit celebrates the Pack as a lifelong family.
“One of my favorite activities for Red and White Week is our employee appreciation event,” Porch said. “It brings together our staff and faculty to enjoy food, company and a great time. The activities and ability to interact with one another become a family affair. We even see some of our students joining, also, as they work with us. It really represents that NC State and our Pack are stronger together.”
That message — stronger together — stands front and center throughout the week. Staff members like Porch, alumni, students and families can all find their place in the celebration.
In addition to the experiences alumni can take part in, this year friends of the Wolfpack are invited to make giving personal by honoring the people, places and programs that make NC State extraordinary with a gift to their favorite area. From student wellbeing to research and innovation, the opportunities are limitless.
There’s also a great lineup of social and interactive content makes it easier than ever to take part. Wolfpack fans have access to a variety of ways to participate, from the “Which Wolf Are You in the Pack?” quiz to custom Instagram stickers to a curated playlist adds the perfect soundtrack to tailgates, watch parties or just a morning walk across campus.
Supporters who can’t make it in person can join the conversations, share Pack pride online and stay connected from any and every location.
For Porch, the in-person gatherings will remain the heart of it all. This year, he looks forward to experiencing what the event offers from a new perspective. “I get to have more time to wander and see what our amazing Staff Senate is sharing with our NC State Pack, as well as all of the other opportunities that are part of employee appreciation,” he said.
That enthusiasm carries into the homecoming game, where the Pack’s energy is at its peak.
Porch describes it as one of the ultimate experiences of belonging at NC State. It’s the perfect fit for this year’s theme – Light It Red.
“The homecoming games manifest the ultimate spirit of our Pack. You can feel the tangible spirit of our students and see the ‘Think and Do’ motto of NC State come to life through hair-raising gameplay,” said Porch.
Registration for Red and White Week events is is open until October 20.
Whether you’re planning to join a tailgate, attend a social event or participate online, there’s still plenty of time to be part of the Pack’s biggest tradition of the year.
As Porch says, “We succeed best when we work and play together.”
