SNL fans, rejoice: Head writer and “Weekend Update” anchor Seth Meyers will lead the 2011 Northwestern Homecoming Parade on Oct. 21.

Meyers, Communication ’96, once brought his signature dry wit to Mee-Ow, NU’s student improv group. He performed with Chicago’s Improv Olympic Theater and Amsterdam’s Boom Chicago Theater before landing the “Saturday Night Live” gig.

As grand marshal, Meyers will guide the “Purple Reign”-themed parade floats down Sheridan Road. Wildcat fans can visit Deering Meadow at 7:30 p.m. for the Homecoming Concert and Pep Rally to gear up for the next day’s football game against Penn State at Ryan Field. Throughout the weekend, students inspired by Meyers’ comedic skills can watch Second City perform “Wildcat on a Hot Tin Roof,” a sketch comedy parodying NU.

Students reacted positively to news of Meyers’ involvement.

“It will be fun to have a comedian,” Weinberg sophomore Kate Ransdell said. “I hope he says a few words about his experiences here because I’m sure he’ll bring a good spirit for Homecoming weekend.”

“Law & Order” actress Stephanie March, Communication ’96, served as grand marshal last year with her husband, celebrity chef Bobby Flay.

For more information, visit the NU Homecoming website at http://alumni.northwestern.edu/homecoming2011.

– Michele Corriston