2021 New Ulm High School graduate Connor Slette participated in the 2024 University of Minnesota Homecoming Court this past week. Slette was one of eight participants who were carefully selected out of the 50,000 students at the University. The NUHS alum is the current President of the University of Minnesota Habitat for Humanity chapter, captain of the division-one rugby team, and conducts breast cancer research through the University.

Throughout the week, Slette was required to participate in many events, including walking in a massive parade, participating in a school-wide trivia night, and attending the homecoming football game, where the Golden Gophers would take home a 48-23 win. However, his favorite part of the week was the comedy show, headlined by Saturday Night Live’s Marcello Hernandez on Friday night. “Marcello has been one of my favorite comedians for a while now, so seeing him in person and meeting him is a dream come true,” Slette said.

The court selection process was extremely selective. First, the court members had to apply to be on the court and went through multiple tedious interviews. Even once they secured their position on the court, the race was not over.

Being selected as one of the two Royals was equally arduous. The court members were judged on four criteria: 1. Student vote. 2. Events they attended during the week. 3. Their attitudes and demeanor at those events. 4. A formal interview. The two people with the highest overall markings from the homecoming coordinators were recognized as the Royals.

Although Slette was not selected as one of the Royals, he is still grateful for being able to take part in the exclusive homecoming court. “Jack and Zariyah (the Royals) are truly amazing people, and I’m honored I was able to share this past week with them, as well as the rest of the court,” Slette said.