Students cheered and listened to such songs as Darius Rucker’s “Wagon Wheel,” Maroon 5’s “Sunday Morning” and Sia’s “Chandelier” at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Homecoming Karaoke Event on Tuesday.
One by one, students came to the microphone in the Morris University Center Goshen Lounge and showed their Cougar spirit by belting out songs from famous artists, which brought them acclaim from an energetic crowd.
Ten students, representing 10 student organizations, competed for the title of “Spirit Contest,” according to Dylan Stanley, graduate assistant for Campus Activities Board, who coordinated the karaoke contest.
“It’s been fun participating in the karaoke contest,” said Taylor Keel, a senior who represented Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority and won second place. “It’s a great way to end my time at SIUE. I graduate in December with a bachelor’s in applied communications.”
One song that the theater and dance minor sang was “Chandelier.” Keel revved up the audience with not only her well-sung notes, but also her polished and animated stage presence.
“It’s going to be an exciting week,” said Alina Gonzalez, 
after she represented the Hispanic Student Union with an impressive rendition of “Sunday Morning.” Gonzalez won third place in the contest.
Sophomore Nick Stegeman, representing Kappa Sigma Fraternity, sang Rufus Wainwright’s version of “Hallelujah,” because “someone had to do it.”
“I’ve enjoyed Homecoming week,” Stegeman continued. “It’s good to unwind. It’s good to have events to bring us all together as a school.”
“I think we’ve kicked off the Homecoming Week especially well,” said Stanley. “The Cougar pride is really strong. You can feel it. You can tell that the students really want to be a part of this tradition.”
Winning first place in the karaoke contest was Bobbie Ketrow of Alpha Phi Sorority singing Alison Krauss’ “When You Say Nothing at All.” The judges were Sarah Kilpatrick, University Housing; Riane Greenwalt, director of Health Services; and Michelle Welter, associate director of the Kimmel Student Involvement Center. Students were judged in the categories of talent, crowd engagement/stage presence and knowledge of song lyrics.
Photos:
Singing Sia’s “Chandelier” is senior Taylor Keel of Alpha Sigma Tau.
Singing Maroon 5’s “Sunday Morning” is sophomore Alina Gonzalez of the Hispanic Student Union.