🐾 Madison Traditions 🐾
Purpose
"Madison Traditions" encompasses programming targeted at current students and presented by the JMU Alumni Association. From energetic events welcoming first-years to campus to thoughtful farewells for graduating seniors, there are many ways to celebrate and engage with the JMUAA year round!
Why do traditions matter?
The oldest tradition on campus, the Senior Candle Lighting, has been a part of the JMU fabric since the first commencement ceremonies in 1911. Madison Traditions are a fundamental part of our community and show our commitment to what we stand for as Dukes. These traditions matter because they:
- Connect the JMU community to the history of the institution.
- Instill values of being a civically engaged individual.
- Support pride and enthusiasm as a JMU DUKE!
Download My Traditions Poster
|
Senior Candle Lighting:
This is a Spring event and usually happens in April
Originally called the Normal and Industrial School for Women at Harrisonburg, JMU was founded in 1908. Three years later, the first-ever commencement ceremonies were held with 20 women receiving degrees. With the first graduates, the Alumnae Association was founded.
Since then, the JMU has undergone many transformations including several name changes. From the original 20 members the JMU Alumni Association has grown to 150,000+ members.
Senior Candle Lighting and Toast has it’s roots to the very first commencement exercises celebrated in 1911. The passing of flame symbolizes the transfer of leadership from one generation of Dukes to the next and the pinning symbolizes being welcomed to your new status as an alum of the institution.
|
|
Dukes From Day One:
Learning all the words to the JMU Fight Song can be daunting! We're here to make it easier on you with our annual upside-down Fight-Song t-shirt giveaway. This must-have spirit apparel is distributed exclusively at Dukes From Day One in the Fall. Incoming first-year and transfer students are invited to grab a shirt, enjoy free food, games, and dancing at this signature event. As always, we're Dukes From Day One, Alumni For Life! Before you know it, you will be singing along with your peers, "Madison, James Madison. We are the Dukes of JMU!" |
|
|
Grad Cap Design:
This is a virtual event and happens every Spring and Fall semester.
You've made it! You worked hard and earned your degree. Now it's time to graduate in style! The Grad Cap Design Contest is an exciting opportunity to celebrate your JMU journey and share your excitement for the future. The design with the most votes will win a JMU Bookstore Gift Card Valued at $100, receive social media features, and a super-sized swag bag.
|
|
#WeBleedPurple Fridays:
When you think of JMU, you may think of Duke Dog, your lifelong friendships, or the Burg's photo-op worthy, mountainous skyline. No matter what comes to your mind, you cannot think about JMU without seeing PURPLE! #WeBleedPurple Fridays is a celebration of school pride. Make sure to wear purple on Fridays and follow the JMU Alumni Association on social media for a chance to win swag. |
|
|
I 💜JMU Week:
I 💜 JMU Week celebrates all the things we love about JMU and making sure those things continue to happen. Enjoy a week-long line-up of fun events celebrating what it means to be an engaged and philanthropic JMU Duke!
|
|
|
50 Days to Graduation:
Celebrated in the Spring and Fall
Celebrate 50 more days until graduation with JMU classics at EHall.
|
|