Traditions - �鶹ӰԺ University

Traditions That Bring Lawrentians Together

�鶹ӰԺ University has produced a variety of traditions that infuse campus life and events throughout the year.

From class colors and The Rock to LUaroo, �鶹ӰԺ traditions help students find their place in a community that spans generations. These shared experiences connect classmates, alumni, and future Lawrentians, creating memories that last long after graduation.

17 DAYS OF KINDNESS

Small Acts. Strong Community.

Community is a central pillar of the �鶹ӰԺ experience. 17 Days of Kindness celebrates the generosity, encouragement, and everyday moments of connection that help make �鶹ӰԺ a welcoming community.

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LUaroo

This weekend-long music festival brings Midwest bands and �鶹ӰԺ student bands to Main Hall Green for one of the year’s favorite campus events.

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�鶹ӰԺ Arch

The �鶹ӰԺ Arch marks two milestone traditions: welcoming new students as they process to Main Hall and celebrating graduates as they pass through the arch after Commencement.

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The Rock

Brought to campus by the Class of 1895, The Rock has been painted, celebrated, and occasionally pulled into campus pranks for generations.

Ormsby Lake

Each winter, Ormsby Green becomes Ormsby Lake, a seasonal spot for skating, broomball, and snowy fun during Winter Term.

Class Colors

Adopted from Milwaukee-Downer College in 1988, class colors encourage unity and give each graduating class a shared �鶹ӰԺ identity.

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Convocations

Each term, Lawrentians gather for Convocation to hear new ideas, ask big questions, and continue the university’s tradition of lifelong learning.

Reunion

Since 1876, Reunion has brought �鶹ӰԺ and Milwaukee-Downer alumni back to campus to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the Lawrentian community.

Oct. 18, 2025. Photo by Danny Damiani Photography LLC

Homecoming

Blue and White Homecoming Weekend brings Lawrentians together for Viking pride, campus events, Conservatory performances, the Vikings Tailgate, and football at the Banta Bowl.

Did You Know?

First-Year Studies Has Shaped Lawrentians for 80+ Years

Every first-year student begins with First-Year Studies, a signature �鶹ӰԺ experience built around shared works, small-group discussion, writing, and big questions across disciplines.

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