Traditions

The fall semester kicks off with academic convocation where words of wisdom and encouragement are delivered by the reigning professor of the year. Representatives of the new freshmen class and new transfer students formally present the Keuka College President with canoe paddles and acorns and the new class is officially welcomed to Keuka College.

Green and Gold Celebration Weekend is held in mid-October and brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, families, friends, and the local community for a variety of programs, athletic contests and special events. The entire Keuka College Community engages in all that is Keuka College and creates special memories that are shared by all. The annual semi-formal dance is held in the fall semester.

The winter season convenes with Attack of the Pack, a takeoff on the popular Midnight Madness theme. Members of the winter teams (men’s basketball, women’s basketball and men’s volleyball) are introduced before the basketball players take part in shooting and dunking competitions. Keuka College marks the end of fall semester classes and the start of exams with two events: a Christmas candlelight service in Norton Chapel and Late Night Breakfast, where faculty and staff come to the Geiser Dining Commons to cook and serve students.

Spring Weekend is held during one of the last weekends in April and is coordinated by the junior class. The junior class executive board and class members choose the theme and events that will take place throughout the weekend. Past themes have included Rising High (with high elements and activities), Carnival (carnival rides, games and food), and Color the Campus.

Perhaps the most storied of all Keuka College traditions is May Day Weekend, which includes Honors Convocation, the Leadership/Moving Up Ceremony, the Annual Carl and Fanny Fribolin Lecture, and the awarding of Class Member of the Year. Years ago, the College staged a May Day pageant—complete with maypole—and while there is no longer a pageant, May Day Weekend is still an important part of the academic year. A number of recognition luncheons (Student Employee of the Year, Experiential Learners of the Year) are held as the spring semester winds down, along with the Multicultural Student Association (MSA) Fashion Show. Another Late Night Breakfast is held as well. Senior Week and the academic year officially comes to a close with baccalaureate and commencement.