Civic and SMU leaders Altshuler and Sewell serve as SMU Homecoming Parade grand marshals

Two of Dallas’ most esteemed leaders – Ruth Altshuler and Carl Sewell – served as grand marshals for SMU’s Centennial Homecoming Parade Sept. 26.

Ruth Altshuler

Carl Sewell

Mrs. Altshuler ‘48 and Mr. Sewell ‘66 are co-chairs of SMU’s Second Century Celebration Organizing Committee, as well as alumni and long-time leaders and supporters of the University and the city of Dallas.

“We are honored to have two of our most outstanding alums lead the Centennial Homecoming Parade,” said SMU President R. Gerald Turner. “Their tireless devotion to SMU and forward-looking vision are great examples for our students and fellow alumni.”

Mrs. Altshuler is a co-chair of The Second Century Campaign Leadership Council and an SMU trustee. She served as chair of the Board of Trustees from 2000–02. She has served on numerous other SMU boards and committees and is a recipient of the University’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

A national leader in the automotive industry, Mr. Sewell ’66 is chairman of Sewell Automotive Companies. He is a co-chair of The Second Century Campaign Leadership Council and an SMU trustee. Mr. Sewell was chair of the Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2010 and received the University’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 1993.

In the SMU Centennial spirit, the grand marshals will lead a Homecoming Parade that features the SMU Parade of Giants, towering puppets representing giants in SMU history, the Mustang Alumni Band and more than 20 former SMU Homecoming queens and kings. It also will showcase decorative student-built floats, marching bands, dance troupes, and beloved SMU mascot Peruna.

Following the parade and pre-game activities on the Boulevard, the Mustangs will play James Madison University at 6 p.m. in Ford Stadium. The “100th Birthday Salute to SMU” in Gerald J. Ford Stadium will sport the University’s largest-ever halftime show. A fireworks extravaganza will follow the game.

For more details about activities, game tickets, directions, parking and more: SMU.edu/Homecoming.