Wayne Thorp, an alumnus of the Sul Ross State University Class of 1985, is the 2025 Homecoming Grand Marshal.

The parade is Friday, Oct. 10, at 7:30 p.m. The bonfire and pep rally will follow at the track next to the intramural field.

A two-sport athlete and true Lobo standout, Thorp earned his Bachelor of Business Administration. During his time at Sul Ross, he was a three-year letterman in football during the Lobos’ 1982 TIAA Championship and NAIA Division II Quarterfinals, and two-year letterman in track. His athletic excellence earned him All-Conference honors in both 1983 and 1984, along with Defensive Player of the Year and NAIA All-American recognition in 1984. Thorp was also named Sul Ross Man of the Year for 1984–85 and appeared in Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities.

Following graduation, he was commissioned through the Naval Officer Candidate School in 1988 and served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Waddell until 1990. He later built a successful career in construction, serving as Construction Superintendent with Kiewit Construction in Fort Worth before becoming Owner and Manager of Thorp Companies in Mertzon.

In recognition of his outstanding achievements, he was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor in 2011, and in 2022, he was honored with the 2022 Slingin’ Sammy Baugh Service Award for his ongoing commitment and significant contributions to his alma mater. Thorp has been a major donor to the football program and the revitalization of the playing surface and facilities at Jackson Field.

“Wayne’s dedication on the field, in service, and through his continued support of Sul Ross exemplifies the true spirit of the Lobo community. We are honored to celebrate his achievements as our 2025 Homecoming Grand Marshal,” said Director of Alumni Relations Kathy Moreno.