Traditions
Time-honored Traditions That Bring Us Together
Susquehanna traditions are more than events — they connect generations and shape the student journey from day one to graduation and beyond.
Whether it’s the excitement of Move-In Day, the pride of Orange & Maroon Day or the reflection and joy of Commencement, these shared experiences build a strong sense of belonging and community. Each tradition is a chance to celebrate milestones, honor diverse perspectives, make memories and create connections that last a lifetime. At Susquehanna, you’ll be part of something bigger — a campus culture rooted in meaning, celebration and togetherness.
Where Passion Meets Purpose
Straight from the Nest
“The activities and events that make my time at Susquehanna special are the age-old, classic traditions that the university hosts like Thanksgiving, Halloween on the Ave., and the Christmas Candlelight Service.”
— Sophia Watson ’25
“As an athlete, my favorite tradition here at Susquehanna is Thanksgiving dinner, when I enjoy a night out with my teammates for a homemade meal to celebrate the holiday. But, the best part is our coaches serve us dinner.”
— Mackenzie Moran ’26
“My favorite tradition at Susquehanna is the Christmas Candlelight Service each December. It brings all the campus music ensembles together to perform holiday selections for the Susquehanna and Selinsgrove communities. It’s a great way to end the semester, and it’s something I always look forward to.”
— Autumn DeCosmo ’25
“My favorite tradition on campus is Thanksgiving dinner. You sit with friends and enjoy a catered meal served by coaches, professors and student life staff. It’s a great time to relax and connect.”
— Catherine Chodnicki ’25
Move-In Day
Susquehanna’s Move-in Day is a testament to the strong sense of community on campus. Returning students volunteer as Orientation Team members to assist incoming students with the move-in process. It is a collaborative effort with students helping each other, which creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Opening Convocation
A special annual event that marks the beginning of the academic year at Susquehanna, Opening Convocation welcomes new students and their families and supporters, with addresses from university leaders and a formal opening by the faculty marshal.
Orange & Maroon Day
Show your Susquehanna University pride on Orange & Maroon Day! Held annually before Labor Day, this event encourages the entire Susquehanna community to wear orange and maroon and share photos on social media.
Family Weekend
Experience all that Susquehanna has to offer at Family Weekend with engaging activities like athletic events, theatre performances, campus tours and information sessions. Families can learn about study abroad opportunities, post-graduation planning and more.
Homecoming & Reunion Weekend
A beloved Susquehanna tradition that brings alumni back to campus each fall, Homecoming & Reunion Weekend is a festive weekend with a variety of fun activities like football games, reunions, campus tours, and special events like concerts and receptions.
Thanksgiving Dinner
Each November, Susquehanna celebrates Thanksgiving with a holiday feast that brings the entire campus community together. Faculty and staff serve students a delicious meal, complete with all the traditional fixings. This special event provides an opportunity for students to give thanks, bond with friends and experience a unique American tradition.
Christmas Candlelight Service
Enjoy an unforgettable holiday experience at Susquehanna’s Christmas Candlelight Service, with heartwarming readings, carols and prayers, culminating in a moving candlelit rendition of Silent Night.
Mid-Year Graduates
Susquehanna honors and celebrates its mid-year graduates in a ceremony with remarks from University President Jonathan Green and a distinguished faculty member.
MLK Convocation
Marking the official start of the spring semester, Winter Convocation welcomes both new and returning students to campus. The ceremony often includes music performances by students and a keynote speaker who reflects on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
SU SERVE
Through SU SERVE, students, faculty, staff, alumni and parents contribute more than 400,000 hours of service annually to local and global organizations, making a positive impact on their communities, while enhancing their personal and professional growth.
Senior Hike
A cherished Susquehanna tradition dating back to the 19th century, the Senior Hike is a challenging trek up Mount Mahanoy led by the university president. When graduates reach the summit, they enjoy views of the Susquehanna River Valley, where the president shares words of wisdom.
Commencement
The university celebrates the achievements of its graduating class with a series of ceremonies, including the main Commencement ceremony and Baccalaureate, a non-religious service that features student speakers, musicians and reflections on the graduating class’s journey.
