Former Gator player, television show winner named grand marshals for parade

September 30, 2005

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – On Oct. 7, the Gator Nation will celebrate the largest student-run parade in the nation, the 82nd University of Florida Homecoming Parade.

The Homecoming Parade runs along University Avenue between Gale Lemerand Drive (formerly North-South Drive) and Main Street in downtown Gainesville, beginning at noon. The event is free and open to the public.

This year’s grand marshals are Emmitt Smith, former Florida Gator running back and NFL rushing leader, and Kendra Todd, winner of season three of television’s “The Apprentice.”

“The annual Homecoming Parade is a great way for students, faculty and community members to get together and showcase their Gator spirit! This year we are excited to welcome many new organizations who have never participated in the parade before, as well as classic groups that have been participating for many years,” said Matt Shapiro, director of the Homecoming Parade.

The 2005 Homecoming celebration takes place Oct. 3-7, ending with the largest student-run pep rally in the nation, Gator Growl.

For more information, call (352) 392-1671 ext. 400, visit the Web site http://www.ufhomecoming.org or e-mail natrue@ufl.edu.