The Oval — one of NC State University’s Hallowed Places — was abuzz for the third annual POP Back on Sept. 4. More than 7,000 students showed up to plunge their professors in the dunk tank, test their strength on a mechanical bull and beat their friends at cornhole and other games. Eight local food trucks provided meals and snacks, while two bands performed live music.

This year, POP Back brought together all of the colleges on Centennial Campus — the College of Engineering, Wilson College of Textiles, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and College of Education — resulting in the largest celebration yet with more industry sponsors and campus groups than ever before.

The 2025 event was powered by Hitachi. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities and check out photos at packtheoval.org.