Introduction

Simmons students celebrate the Olde English Dinner in 1946

Since the founding of Simmons University, traditions have played a large role in the Simmons student experience. During the early years, Simmons traditions included events such as the Faculty-Student Baseball Game, the Freshman Frolic, Founder's Day, the Ghost Walk, the Freshman-Junior Wedding, May Day, and the Olde English Dinner. These traditions acted as a way for the small student body to come together as a community, building camaraderie within each class and providing opportunities for social engagement throughout the academic year.

In later years, many of these traditions were either dropped or transformed, reflecting both the changing interests of the incoming student bodies and the expanding social opportunities available outside of the school setting. More recent traditions include Friends and Family Weekend, Simmons Soiree, and Shark Week. While many of the traditions highlighted in this exhibit are no longer celebrated, traditions remain a valuable aspect of Simmons life.