Nicolle Generaux | News Writer - The Auburn Plainsman

The Depot on Mitcham Avenue in Auburn, Alabama.

Danny Zimmermann | Photographer

Community

Train stations to culinary prestige at The Depot

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | March 2

Opening in September of 2015, The Deport is a fine dining restaurant serving the freshest of seafood from a globally-inspired menu. Patrons appreciate the quality of their fried crustaceans and their family-friendly atmosphere, but they may not realize the significance of the actual construction of the restaurant – which began as none other than Auburn’s third railroad depot.

Thom Gossom Jr. and Sam Heys sign books and converse with attendants after book talk at The Hotel at Auburn University on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026.

Nicolle Generaux | News Writer

Identities

Book talk reveals James Owens' impact on integration at Auburn

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | February 8

On Friday, Feb. 6, The Hotel at Auburn University held a public book talk and signing of Thom Gossom Jr.'s and Sam Heys’ biography, “Just Follow Me: James Owens and the Integration of Southeastern Conference Football.” The novel chronicles the story of James Owens, Auburn’s first Black football player who battled racism and harsh criticisms during his career as a talented running back from 1968 to 1972.

Six women pose together on steps, holding bouquets of yellow flowers and wearing casual attire, with a house in the background.

Campus

A glimpse into the Miss Auburn 2026 campaigns

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | February 3

Five candidates will be competing for Miss Auburn 2026. Starting Wednesday Feb. 4, the candidates will campaign on Haley Concourse from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until the election on Friday, Feb. 6. Voting that day will be open to all students from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at aub.ie/sgavote.

The main tower entrance of Auburn University's Recreation and Wellness Center stands above nearby traffic on Nov. 14, 2025.

Beau Scott | Photographer

Campus

'The Rec' offers health services to students in need

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | November 17

The Recreation and Wellness Center, commonly known as "the Rec," provides many services for Auburn students, faculty and staff in both mental and physical health interventions. The facility holds group fitness classes, organizes intramural and club sport leagues, hosts Olympic and powerlifting competitions, arranges outdoor adventure experiences, offers one-on-one personal training and conducts other events throughout the year to get the student body involved.

A look at the main entrance of Neville Arena, taken on Nov. 12, 2025.

Luca Flores | Photo Editor

Campus

Concerts coming to Neville Arena

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | November 13

Live music is coming to the Plains! With the new, long-term collaboration of Auburn Athletics with Peachtree Entertainment, Neville Arena and Jordan-Hare Stadium are scheduled to hold at least five concerts annually, featuring bands and singers known nationwide. The partnership is an exciting announcement for all current and future Auburn students. Notably, within the next five months, the upcoming performances will range from faith-based worship songs to soulful country music, featuring performers Josiah Queen, Hulvey, Claire Leslie, Riley Green and Parker McCollum.

Children run to collect flags from a vintage car during the Freedom Fest Veterans Parade in Opelika, Ala., on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025.

Elizabeth Marsh | Photographer

Community

Freedom Fest Weekend 2025: An opportunity to honor U.S. veterans

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | November 8

On Nov. 7 and Nov. 8, Opelika celebrated American Veterans by hosting the first Freedom Fest Weekend. In past years, Opelika has organized an annual Veterans Day Breakfast and Veterans Day Program. This year, more additions were made to the tributary festivities with the support of the City of Opelika, Flags for Vets, IS4S and ESPN, establishing a two-day-long tradition to recognize those who have served.

Vendor pours Oktoberfest attendee a beer at an event. Photo by Hanjiaxi Qin, former photo editor.

Community

14th annual Oktoberfest returns to Auburn

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | October 22

The 14th annual Oktoberfest will return for the weekend at Ag Heritage Park, with the festival taking place on Oct. 24 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Oct. 25 from 1 to 5 p.m. Established in Auburn in 2008, Oktoberfest has become one of the largest beer festivals in the South. Around 70 of the world’s most renowned breweries and wineries are registered for the event, including Blue Moon, Sweetwater, Goat Island, Stone, Victory, New Belgium and more.

On Oct. 15, Aubie the Tiger poses with students for a photo at 2025 Hey Day pep rally. Contributed by Abigail Holbrook, Student Involvement photographer.

Campus

Auburn hosts first annual Hey Day Social

By Nicolle Generaux | News Writer | October 16

On Oct. 15, the first annual in-person Hey Day Social was held at Hey Day Market and the Greenspace. Although Hey Day is a longstanding tradition for the University, this new event sought to unite the entire Auburn community, bringing together not only current students and faculty but also alumni, family members and residents as well.