Hosted annually by Associated Students, Incorporated (ASI) Bronco Events and Activities Team (BEAT) BroncoCon has emerged over the years as an immersive convention of geek culture on campus. It encompasses everything from comics and gaming to cosplay and fandoms. This year’s event proved to be the most ambitious and captivating edition yet. A buzz of anticipation filled the air as lines snaked around the Bronco Student Center (BSC, Bldg. 35). Fans eagerly awaited the commemorative tote bags, coveted Lego sets, and personalized name badges reserved for the first 400 attendees—mementos to ensure their BroncoCon experience was truly unforgettable. For many like Tori Umeda, a fourth-year Gender, Ethnicity, and Multicultural studies major, the event drew undeniable parallels to major pop culture conventions: “It feels a lot like WonderCon or Comic–Con!”
With the collaborative efforts between organizers and various cultural centers on campus which included the Womxn’s Resource Center (WRC), the Asian Pacific Islander Student Center (APISC), and the Pride Center, this year’s BroncoCon lived up to its promise of a bigger and better event. Together, they curated an impressive lineup that not only embraced diversity and inclusivity but also honored International Women’s Day. Truly, it was more than just an experience, it was a celebration of creativity that unites communities worldwide.
The marquee event was undoubtedly the star-studded celebrity guests that featured three renowned personalities from vastly different creative realms. Honey Davenport a beloved contestant from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” emceed a captivating drag show hosted by the Pride Center to start the night off.
Next, fans had the chance to engage with Victoria Ying, a talented author and illustrator whose artistic flair had brought life to iconic franchises like “Big Hero 6” and DC Comics. Ying offered a unique behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind some of the most beloved animated and comic book characters.
But the true crowning jewel of the celebrity guest lineup was the highly anticipated appearance of Dante Basco—a versatile talent whose accomplished acting career spans iconic roles like Mohawk in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” to his most iconic role as the legendary voice of Zuko from “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” Countless fans adorned in “Avatar” inspired cosplays packed the room. For most, it was a rare opportunity to engage with the man who breathed life into one of animation’s most complex and influential characters.
Among the costume enthusiasts was June Nguyen, a graduate student studying education. Donning an Appa costume—the beloved sky bison from the series—she awaited Basco’s arrival with great anticipation. “Dante is the main reason I’m here,” Nguyen said. “I’ve never had the chance to see him at other conventions, so I knew I had to go all out and dress appropriately to meet the voice behind Zuko.”
The renowned voice actor entered the pannel and instantly captivated the devoted crowd. He shared insights into his humble beginnings in San Francisco and his journey as an accomplished actor. His Q&A session left fans inspired by his stories and grateful for the chance to connect with such an influential talent.
Beyond the star-studded lineup, BroncoCon offered a plethora of engaging activities and attractions. The DIY room, face painting, and airbrush tattoos allowed visitors to unleash their creativity and added a touch of playfulness to the event. A cosplay showcase allowed attendees to go up on stage and show off their creative outfits inspired by their favorite characters.
This year’s BroncoCon hosted 20 student and local vendors who displayed their businesses in a dedicated vendor space. It gave attendees a space to support small businesses and snag unique merchandise. Among the lively vendors was Melissa Guerra, a third-year Visual Communication Design major and the creative mind behind With Love Guerra—a small business selling stickers, pins, magnets, and other accessories featuring her original designs.
Guerra was thrilled when ASI’s Student Activities Assistant reached out recognizing her brand. “I was appreciative because it meant people knew about me,” Guerra said. This was Guerra’s first time as a vendor at BroncoCon and the experience exceeded her expectations. “I have been to plenty of events around LA, some in San Diego, and I was always discouraged because a lot of people would not buy from me. But I like the atmosphere here. I like seeing familiar faces and new faces and I feel like I am building a community here,” she noted.
Attendees departed the event with cherished memories and a renewed appreciation for the geek community. The resounding success of BroncoCon 2024 would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the ASI organizers and the invaluable collaboration with cultural centers like the WRC, APISC, and Pride Center. Their unified vision crafted an inclusive experience that transcended mere entertainment to celebrate diversity, empower creativity, and cultivate a community united by their interest. As the curtain closed on this year’s festivities, attendees could only wonder and buzz with anticipation over what incredible experience the next edition of BroncoCon will have in store!
What was your favorite part of this year’s BroncoCon? Let us know on our social media and keep up to date on more upcoming events @ASICPP on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok!
