If you are serious, get the word out now, and book a block of rooms in the hotel ASAP, especially if your Homecoming is a big deal. Stay on top of the hotel like no other to make sure your rooms are reserved at whatever rate they'll give you and make sure that contract is signed. We had some issues with that.
If you are going to do a formal dinner, seriously consider doing it at whatever hotel you have people stay at. (Good to consider before you book a block of rooms) I would also suggest doing the dinner at the hotel for other reasons, like transportation. If your insurance is like ours you have to provide it to attendees where ever your event is, you can really cut the cost by doing it at the hotel cause you'll only need to transport the actives.
ASK ASK ASK for help and suggestions. Survey both almunae and actives for what they would like to see as part of the weekend. This is just a little, but if you need help feel free to ask, I just finished our 5 year reunion and def have things I'd do different.
eta: cause i can't spell
