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Traditions That Define the Wilson Experience

Wilson’s long and proud history has led to many traditions, rituals, and symbols. While a rare few traditions have become outdated and fallen by the wayside, most of our traditions remain integral to today’s student experience. From Sarah Wilson Week in the fall to the Daisy Chain in the spring, Wilson’s traditions bring our students together all year long to strengthen and unite our campus community.
 

Spring Fling (May Day)

This annual ritual (originally called “May Day”) is based on the medieval celebration of spring historically popular at many women’s colleges.

Sarah Wilson Week (Dummy Rush)

Kicking off the school year, students participate in a variety of traditions including Color Wars, Bigs/Littles, dinks, and much, much more.

Odds & Evens

One of the most important traditions, Odds and Evens maintain a friendly rivalry on campus and each has their own class colors.

Daisy Chain

On the eve of graduation, the sophomore class builds a daisy chain to present to the graduating class on commencement morning. The chain is placed into the Conococheague Creek and is carried on the current, symbolizing good wishes for the graduates in their life journey beyond college.

Mascot: The Phoenix

Wilson’s beloved mascot wasn’t introduced until the 1980s to symbolize the College’s “rebirth” after its near-closing in 1979. 

Class Rings

Although not many students still buy class rings, the Ring-it-Forward program connects current students with alums' historic rings.

Dean's Day

The Dean of Academic Affairs rings the College bell to cancel one day of classes to allow students to enjoy nice spring weather after winter’s end. 

White Dinner

Seniors wear white to a formal dinner composed primarily of white foods to support charity.

The Alma Mater

By 1924, the Wilson Handbook lists “’Mid the Pines and Maples”, written by Bertha Peifer ’21 and Virginia Mayer Zacharias ’20 as the “New Alma Mater” .