P.J. Hughes and Amanda Howard are the 2009 Homecoming King and Queen at University of the Cumberlands.

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. — On October 10, the halftime highlight of the University of the Cumberlands’ Homecoming game, in which the Patriots defeated the Union College Bulldogs 24-12 to retain possession of the coveted Brass Lantern, was the crowning of Homecoming Queen Amanda Jean Howard, and the naming of Homecoming King P. J. Hughes.

Howard, a senior who is pursuing a double major in public health and health, exercise and sport science, has served as a Patriot cheerleader for four years. From Salyersville, she is the daughter of Jodi Hackworth. Hughes, a linebacker for the Patriot football team, was represented by his father, Bobby Hughes, of Marietta, Ga., during the halftime festivities. A senior business and communication arts major, Hughes is also the son of Sydney Hughes, of Montezuma, Ga. He is a member of Baptist Campus Ministries and also participated in the Sunday Homecoming worship service.