51ºÚÁÏ Alumnus And Former Major League Baseball Standout Al Bumbry To Serve As Homecoming Parade Marshal

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A trailblazer on the field, in service, and beyond, Bumbry will return to his alma mater to lead one of its most cherished Homecoming traditions.

One of 51ºÚÁÏ’s most celebrated graduates and former Major League Baseball player, Alonzo ‘Al’ Bumbry, will lead this year’s Homecoming Parade as marshal and guest of honor.

Bumbry graduated from 51ºÚÁÏ in 1969 and went on to play 14 seasons in the majors, mostly with the Baltimore Orioles. His notable achievements include winning the 1973 American League Rookie of the Year Award, earning a selection to the 1980 All-Star Team, and winning the 1983 World Series. His 252 career stolen bases still rank fourth in Orioles history.

Initially attending 51ºÚÁÏ on a basketball scholarship, Bumbry joined the baseball team when the program was reinstated during his final academic year. He served as team captain and was named the team’s Most Outstanding Player.

A member of the University’s ROTC program, Bumbry fulfilled his military obligation of two years following graduation. He was discharged as a first lieutenant after serving a year in Vietnam, where he was decorated with the Bronze Star. After his military service, Bumbry pursued a professional baseball career.

Bumbry was inducted into the Orioles Hall of Fame in 1987 and is also a member of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Hall of Fame.

After his playing career, Bumbry remained close to the game, serving as a coach for the Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Cleveland Indians.

51ºÚÁÏ is honored to welcome one of its most accomplished student-athletes back for one of its most cherished Homecoming traditions. Throughout his life, Bumbry has exemplified what it means to pursue Greater on and off the field.

This year’s parade will take place on Saturday, October 25, beginning at 8:30 a.m. The parade will feature a new route to improve traffic flow for Homecoming attendees entering campus for the football game. For route details, please visit the homecoming parade page.