Penn State Homecoming has found its 2021 honorary grand marshal in Brian Patchcoski, the assistant vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion for Student Affairs.

Homecoming’s honorary grand marshal is traditionally someone who has gone above and beyond in positively contributing to the local community, making notable achievements in their field of study and career path.

Patchcoski began his new position in January. He previously was the director of Penn State’s Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity.

Patchcoski currently oversees the following programs:

• Adult Learner Programs and Services
• Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity
• Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development
• Collegiate Recovery Community
• Gender Equity Center
• Paul Robeson Cultural Center

In a statement, Patchoski said he’s a big fan of this year’s Homecoming theme: “Together, State Prevails.”

“We have come a long way, and there is still so much work to be done,” Patchcoski said. “It’s together, where we will prevail. It’s creating a sense of belonging, community, and support that I know our Penn State community lives.”

Patchcoski got his master’s degree from Penn State and now lives in State College with his husband, two children, and two dogs.

Penn State Homecoming’s in-person festivities will culminate with Penn State football’s matchup with Illinois at Beaver Stadium on Saturday, October 23. Penn State’s annual parade will line the streets of campus and State College on Friday, October 22.

TV personality John Colaneri will serve as Penn State Homecoming’s 2021 grand marshal. He is likely best known for his work as a real estate developer and home makeover expert. You might’ve seen Colaneri on a few HGTV network shows like “Kitchen Cousins” and “Cousins Undercover” or “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.”

This year’s logo, designed by graphic design student Cameron Soravilla, was unveiled back in April.