For more than 180 years, Hollins University traditions have been a thread connecting the past to the present. Each tradition carries the energy of the students who came before us and reminds us that, as a collective, we are part of something larger than ourselves. With the school motto at the forefront—Levavi Oculos (“I will lift my eyes”)—these traditions invite us to honor what has been built while looking with purpose, possibility, and courage toward the future.
The Rock
Located near the science building, The Rock is one of Hollins University’s most enduring and colorful traditions. This large piece of shale was unearthed during construction of the Dana Science Building in 1965, when Professor of Chemistry Betty Gushee asked that it be left in place as a teaching tool. Nearly 20 years later, the Class of 1982 began the tradition of painting it, an act that quickly became a beloved ritual. Today, by tradition, only seniors may paint The Rock, leaving their colorful messages and creativity layered onto this lasting symbol of Hollins pride and community.
One of Hollins’ most beloved campus landmarks, the Rock has received a much-needed restoration with the removal of nearly four decades of paint.
First Step
Following Opening Convocation, Hollins’ First Step ceremony marks the official start of the academic year. Seniors line the sidewalks of the historic Front Quad dressed in creatively decorated robes, each carrying a specially adorned bottle of cider as they take their symbolic first steps onto the grass—a cherished Hollins tradition celebrating new beginnings.
Tinker Day
Possibly Hollins University’s most beloved tradition, Tinker Day is a surprise holiday in the fall semester when classes are canceled and the entire community gathers for donuts and song on campus before hiking up Tinker Mountain together.
Students, faculty, and staff wear colorful, often silly costumes for the climb, celebrating creativity and camaraderie along the way. At the top, everyone who hiked is rewarded with fried chicken, Tinker Cake and skits that showcase Hollins spirit. The day embodies friendship, adventure and a shared sense of tradition that connects generations of Hollins students.
Past themed Tinker Day videos
Opening Convocation
The president welcomes and addresses the campus community, officially beginning the academic year.
Bedtime Stories
As a newer Hollins tradition, Bedtime Stories occurs near the end of each semester, giving students a cozy escape from their hectic schedules as they gather in comfy clothes to hear stories from the President and connect with the community.
Cotillion and May Court
The earliest cotillions, held in the 1890’s, were festive formal dances although social regulations prohibited males. Over the years, Cotillion, our spring formal dance, has come to celebrate students’ nominees for May Monarch. A “May Queen” tradition can be traced back to the May Days of the early 20th century. Festivities were marked by maypole dances, skits, and elaborate costumes. The tradition has since been modified to recognize May Court, a collection of students selected by vote from each class. From this court, the May Monarch is crowned.
Freya Walks
Throughout the year, the members of Freya (a group of anonymous students dedicated to the principle that concern for the community is a creative and vital force) walk at midnight to bring attention to certain traditional events or current issues. They wear black hooded robes to protect their identity and carry candles to symbolize hope.
Golden Rule Dinner
The money saved by serving a simple dinner goes toward service organizations.
Holiday Tea
During the holiday season, the university invites the community to a holiday tea in the Green Drawing Room (GDR). Cookies, punch, friends, and good cheer make this a very special tradition. The Holiday Tea is scheduled in December.
Hollins’ Day
This event happens in February and includes a group of students, faculty, and staff devoted to promoting campus-wide dialogue on issues of collective memory, diversity, and reconciliation. The university at large celebrates the event and features a distinguished speaker. (Video).
Hundredth Night
100 days before graduation, the members of the senior class attend a party given by the university.
Miss Matty Cocke’s Birthday
Matty Cocke, daughter of Hollins’ founder, was the first woman to head a college in Virginia. She served as Hollins’ president from 1901 to 1933. Students celebrate her birthday during lunch in October with cake, traditional Hollins songs, and all the trappings of a birthday party. Faculty may, of course, attend and participate.
Pancake Study Breaks
Role reversal: faculty and staff make pancakes for students during late-night study breaks before fall and spring finals.
Honors Convocation
Students who have received awards, attained membership in honorary societies, and who have been designated honor students for the fall term are recognized at this spring convocation.
Passing of the Robes
Each senior has the chance to pass on her treasured robe to a junior. It is also a day for the other classes to pass on something special to the class below them. All the women of Hollins have an opportunity to join together for a celebration of the unique relationships formed at Hollins.
Ring Night
Ring Night, sponsored by the senior class, occurs once each semester. This event’s main purpose is to honor the juniors with their Hollins rings. Ring Night is a time when the seniors, juniors, and sophomores come together to focus on Hollins and the camaraderie unique to our school. During this time the juniors often wear outlandish outfits and do strange and interesting things.
Road to Commencement
New students are welcomed to the community as they officially begin their Hollins journey in this tradition that mirrors commencement.
Sophomore/Senior Class Banquet
A class banquet with sophomores honoring their graduating senior Siblings.
Sharing the Light: a Holiday Celebration in Story and Song
Expanding on the longstanding tradition of the Hollins White Gift Service, this candlelight event of music, readings, and dance celebrates the spirit of the holiday season, and welcomes the diverse traditions of our community.