Throughout its 175 year history, ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University has developed rich traditions that unite our students and alumni in shared experiences and community. From our unique Boxer mascot to marking milestones by ringing the Old College Hall bell, ½ðɳÓéÀÖ's traditions are centered in its unique and diverse community.
½ðɳÓéÀÖ University Traditions
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Fight Song & Alma Mater
Music has long been a central part of the ½ðɳÓéÀÖ academic tradition, and two songs continue to represent the university. The fight song is sung loud and with good cheer to inspire enthusiasm, most often during athletic events, while the alma mater is sung ceremoniously in respect to the history of ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University.
Spirit Bench
A landmark on the Forest Grove Campus, the Spirit Bench is a dedicated place for students to share messages, pride and events in a fun and creative way. Formerly known as the senior bench, the original bench was donated by the Class of 1908. After being damanged, it was replaced in 1990. Students develop their own rules and protocols for painting the bench — traditionally, students repaint it under the cover of darkness — to celebrate different groups and events.
Sign, Shake & Ring
Old College Hall is the oldest active educational building west of the Mississippi and was the original college building at ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University, built in 1850. The original bell still hangs in the cupola, and students and alumni ring the bell to mark milestones in their education, including at the beginning of their college careers and at graduation. We also ring the bell a final time in honor of each alumni upon their passing.
Golden Guard
The Golden Guard is an honorary society of alumni who attended ½ðɳÓéÀÖ 50-plus years ago. Each year at Homecoming, alumni celebrating their 50th reunion are inducted into the Golden Guard with a special ceremony, medallion, and a chance to sign their names into the sidewalk outside Old College Hall, leaving their indelible mark on the university.