Rap star 50 Cent will headline N.C. A&T’s Hip-Hop Headbanga homecoming concert, at the Greensboro Coliseum on Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.

The concert will close out a two-week long Homecoming celebration full of activities including pre-Homecoming events, a comedy show and gospel explosion.

“A&T has really been blessed to get 50 Cent for a concert. We are the first college or HBCU to get him to come,” said Ty’Juan Turner, vice president of external affairs for Student Government Association. “Our board has been working very hard all summer and it is now time to put our plans into action.”

“This will be the first year that students will be able to purchase packages for homecoming events. The blue package will include comedy show, step show and concert tickets for $45. Students also have the option of purchasing the gold package, which includes the gospel show, comedy show, fashion show, step show and concert for $55.

This year SGA wanted to bring some events back on campus, and also provide more activities for A&T students, Turner said.

“I don’t want anyone to ever say they had nothing to do during Homecoming week.”

The Homecoming events will begin Oct. 16 with the New York and New Jersey talent show followed by BET’s college tour and a weekend gym jam.

“BET will host a interactive tour which has the possibility of being aired on Rap City,” Turner said. “We want to bring a lot of students out this year.”

A gospel show on Oct. 19 will kick off the official week of Homecoming 2003 events. Some of the country’s best choirs will be featured.

A&T students may also be surprised by a few other Homecoming changes made by the SGA, including the return of the step show to Corbett Gym.

“When all events are located at the Coliseum alumni just drive to the event and back to the hotel. Having events on campus bring alumni back home and they are able to see changes and progression made on the campus,” Turner said. “The fellowship is very live and everyone loves the environment.”

The step show will include all nine Greek organizations, including members of Sigma Gamma Rho from UNCG.

Couture Productions will host this year’s Homecoming fashion show, which will be held at Carolina Theatre.

“There will be transportation provided for students to get back and forth from campus,” said SGA President Terrence Jenkins.

Also added to this year’s Homecoming events will be a poetry slam and free style battle. The comedy extravaganza will be hosted by Tone-X and will feature Arnez J, Zooman, Debra Terry and Lavelle Crawford.

To bring closure on all Homecoming activities Turner hopes the concert will be a sell out.

Other concert performers include T.I., Lil’ John & The Eastside Boyz and Chingy. Because SGA anticipates a large crowd, double security will be provided Turner said.

“We know Aggies know how to act and students should feel safe,” Turner said. “The SGA wants to bring events to keep students out of trouble and be able to enjoy themselves.”

• Patrice Withers