Traditions

The uniqueness of the Westhampton College environment provides opportunities for special events that enrich our University community. These traditions include:

Proclamation Night

This candlelight ceremony brings together first year and senior women to emphasize the importance of the Honor Code. Each first-year student signs the Honor Code pledge and is officially recognized as a member of the college community.

In addition, every first-year woman writes a letter to herself, which contains her thoughts about how she will grow, develop, and change during the coming years. She will read this letter during the Proclamation Night of her senior year.

First-Year Student Tree Planting

Each spring, the first-year class plants a tree as a gift to Westhampton College. The branches of the class tree represent the growth that each student will experience. The roots represent the roots students put down as members of the University Community. The tree as a whole symbolizes the strength and permanency of the Westhampton spirit.

Ring Dance

The Junior Ring Dance is perhaps the most memorable of the Westhampton College formal functions. During this dance, the junior class women, their parents, and escorts join together in celebration. As each of the women is introduced, her academic pursuits are announced and the class collectively forms the shape of a "W" on the ballroom floor.

Senior Celebration Night

The Westhampton College Dean's Office and the University of Richmond Alumni Association sponsor an annual dinner for the senior class to celebrate their impending graduation and alumnae status. Special awards, such as the Distinguished Leadership Awards, are given and an alumna addresses the graduating class.