Hannah Chang
Hannah Chang, fourth-year psychology & social behavior major, laughs at fellow members of UCI’s 2011 homecoming court Tuesday as they participate in a rap battle promoting their king- and queenship. Michelle S. Kim / University Communications

It takes a global village to nurture a fight song.

To that end, Anteaters of every stripe gathered Tuesday outside UC Irvine’s Student Center to stage a flash mob – a spontaneous dance rendition of the UCI fight song – for fellow students. The stunt kicked off a weeklong schedule of activities culminating with homecoming 2011, set for Saturday, Jan. 22.

The rousing spirit song, written by Lori White ’85 is UCI’s own – not the tune common to every other University of California campus. Current students choreographed a simple dance to go with the words and recorded a seven-minute instructional video to augment the flash-mob performance.

“One goal of UCI’s Associated Students is to increase school spirit, and that’s exactly what homecoming is all about,” says Sam Shaw, ASUCI business marketing commissioner. “The flash mob was used to generate interest and to involve the campus community. And, hey, every Anteater should know the words to the UCI fight song!”

Other homecoming 2011 activities this week include:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 19, noon-1 p.m.: The homecoming court – which includes Ernie Chen, Jesse Cheng, Kyle Marscellas, Bruno Monteiro, Michael Peyton, Silva Arjian, Hannah Chang, Melyssa Griffin, Elaine Kao and Janelle Sauz – will weave through campus on a scavenger hunt. At 8 p.m., they’ll sing their favorite songs, karaoke-style, at the Anthill Pub.
  • Thursday, Jan. 20, 11a.m.-2 p.m.: The first-ever Anteater block party will feature food, fun and club booths on Ring Mall. The homecoming court will compete in a cupcake-making contest, with winners being judged on school spirit and creativity.
  • Friday, Jan. 21, noon-1 p.m.: There will be a homecoming court talent show

Homecoming day will include a family-friendly street festival, a basketball game and the crowning of the 2011 king and queen. Details include:

  • Street festival: More than 3,000 alumni, students and Anteater fans will gather at 4 p.m. for a fun-filled, free celebration featuring a Greek village, a beer garden, a children’s carnival, school booths, giveaways and live entertainment. A barbecue dinner will be available for purchase. Expect guest appearances by Peter the Anteater, UCI coaches, the homecoming court and more!
  • Basketball game: Tip-off is at 7:05 p.m., when the Anteaters take on Long Beach State.