University alumnus and Disney executive Stan Freese has been announced as the grand marshal of the 2008 Homecoming Parade, but Freese will also be accompanied by favorite Disney character Mickey Mouse. Margaret Carlson, CEO of the University of Minnesota Alumni Association, said in a news release the association is âÄúdelightedâÄù to have Freese and Mickey Mouse appear as grand marshals. “Although Mickey Mouse is not an alumnus, Freese agreed to bring his friend along to make this very special appearance and draw attention to the ‘Pride of Minnesota,’ our marching band,âÄù Carlson said in the release. Freese said in a news release that it is rare for Mickey Mouse to make appearances outside of Disney theme parks. The 2008 Homecoming Parade starts at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, on the Twin Cities East Bank campus along University Avenue. The route will begin at Pleasant Street and travel east along University Avenue to Williams Arena on Oak Street.