Traditions
Annual traditional activities and programs enrich campus life at Georgia College & State University. Some of those traditional events include Black History Month, Greek Week, International Dinner, Kwanzaa, Progressive Dinner, Olympic Column, Week of Welcome, Honors Day, International Week, Midnight Breakfast, and Recognition Night.
Black History Month was started as Negro History Week in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, the father of Black History study. This event celebrates the contributions of Africans and those of African descent to the progress of humanity in general, and to the development of the United States in particular. This event held in February is observed with seminars, films, presentations, exhibits, speeches, lectures, and historical information.
W.O.W. (Week Of Welcome)
A new place, with new people, and new expectations can be a stressful experience. W.O.W. is a week-long welcoming period which assists the newest members of the University in meeting classmates, faculty and staff, and in better understanding the University and its procedures. Activities include dances, movies and other social events as well as seminars and workshops designed to help ease the transition from high school. It's fun and it's helpful.
Greek Week
Each spring the Greek social organizations sponsor Greek Week, which consists of activities which afford fraternity and sorority members opportunities to share fellowship.
Honors Day
The Honors Day program is a University-wide celebration of excellence. Recognition is given to students for scholarship and leadership. Also honored are faculty members who receive awards for outstanding achievement in teaching, research, artistic endeavor or public service.
International Dinner
Each year the International Club invites faculty, staff, and the community for an evening of international cuisine and entertainment.
International Week
Georgia College & State University is fortunate to have, within its student body, citizens from more than 40 countries. International Week allows international students to express their cultural diversity through exhibits, foods, lectures, and films.
Kwanzaa
This unique American holiday that pays tribute to the rich cultural roots of Americans of African ancestry, was founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a Black Studies professor. The celebration, based on the principles of unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose and faith includes both musical and dramatic performances which focus on those principles and a very symbolic ritual.
Midnight Breakfasts
One evening each semester, during final examination week, the faculty and staff serve a full breakfast to students in the dining hall.
Progressive Holiday Dinner
The holidays are a celebration of giving, sharing and fellowship. At GCSU, the holiday season is highlighted by the annual Progressive Holiday Dinner. Faculty, staff, and administrators' families host students in their homes for dinner. Participants gather first on the main campus for hors d'oeuvres, travel to host homes for dinner, then return to campus for dessert and entertainment.
Recognition Night
The Black Student Alliance sponsors a Recognition Night for outstanding black students. Students are recognized for excellence in scholarship, service, and athletics. Scholarships are presented to individuals and student organizations.
Olympic Column
On July 13, 1996, 25,000 gathered on the university front lawn to celebrate the arrival of the Olympic torch as it made its way to the Centennial Olympic Games. The Corinthian column next to the flagpole adorned the stage on which the torch ceremony was conducted. Today, the column stands in honor of the Olympic spirit of excellence and its flame is lighted for special campus observances.
