Sewanee: The University of The South - Institutional Traditions

Institutional Traditions

The school is rich in distinctive traditions, many of which are tied to Southern culture. For example, male students have always worn coats and ties to classes—this tradition has generally been continued, though the coat and tie are often combined with casual pants and sometimes shorts. Faculty and student members of the primary honor society and main branch of student government, the Order of Gownsmen, may wear academic gowns to teach or attend class—perhaps the last vestige of this historically English practice in North America. Furthermore, the Order is charged with the maintenance of this and other traditions of the university. Similarly, both genders enjoy drinking clubs, including The Highlanders and The Wellingtons, Silver Seven, Molly Pitcher, The Beefeaters, and ribbon societies continue to thrive. At major events, members of the former two groups display their distinctive ceremonial garb, kilts and cloaks, respectively. The vice chancellor on formal occasions assumes the cappa clausa cope as the vice chancellor at Cambridge University still does.

Modern traditions include the Festival of Lessons and Carols in early December, an imitation of the traditional Christmas service in Cambridge. Also, local mythology regarding angels is abundant; residents of the Domain tap the roofs of their cars as they pass through the stone gates in order to "get their angel" for protection in their travels. Numerous other traditions continue to flourish on the mountain, many adapted to fit modern practices.

In recent years, some alumni and students have perceived that the school was trying to downplay the university's traditions, particularly its historical and cultural ties with Southern culture. As a result, some traditions have come under special scrutiny.