UMHB Student Life: Traditions and Campus Culture
Student life at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) is defined by a deep commitment to long-standing traditions, spiritual observance, and a strong sense of class identity. From ceremonial marches to competitive showcases, the university maintains a unique cultural environment that blends historical legacy with modern student engagement.
Key Facts
- Easter Pageant: A student-produced Holy Week reproduction running for 79 consecutive years.
- Charter Day: An annual celebration of the university's February 1, 1845, charter signing.
- Stunt Night: A class competition established in 1909 to provide holiday activities for residents.
- LGBT Policies: The university holds a Title IX exception allowing the exclusion of LGBT student organizations for religious reasons.
- Dubbing Ceremony: A Welcome Week tradition where new students are named "Crusaders Forever."
Campus Traditions and Ceremonies
Spiritual and Historical Observances
The university is well-known for its Easter Pageant, an outdoor reproduction of Holy Week. Performed on the Wednesday afternoon before Easter in front of Luther Memorial, the event is entirely student-led—covering directing, costumes, and acting—and attracts nearly 5,000 spectators annually.
Every February, the campus celebrates Charter Day, commemorating the signing of the university's charter on February 1, 1845. During a chapel service on the first Wednesday of the month, seniors perform the alumni/senior song, "Up with the Purple," and place a floral wreath on the grave of Judge R.E.B. Baylor in the courtyard.
Rites of Passage for Students
The Dubbing Ceremony, introduced in 1995, serves as a welcoming rite for new students. During Welcome Week, administration uses a ceremonial sword to dub students as "Crusaders Forever." This is accompanied by the singing of the Alma Mater and the ringing of the sophomore bell, which tolls for the number of years the university has existed.
As students progress toward graduation, the Robing ceremony symbolizes the transfer of leadership from seniors to juniors. Dating back potentially to 1902, seniors place caps and gowns on juniors, marking the first time juniors are permitted to sing "Up with the Purple." Since 2007, this has been paired with the Class Ring Ceremony during the Friday of Midnight March.
The Midnight March occurs a few weeks before Spring Commencement. Seniors in full regalia carry lighted candles around Vann Circle Drive, singing the senior/alumni song and lighting the candles of alumni and friends. While once held partially inside dormitories, fire codes have since moved the entire event outdoors.
Student Competitions and Social Events
Class Spirit and Competition
Stunt Night is a storied competition between the four classes designed to build class bonds. Started in 1909 by physical education instructor George Rosborough for students unable to go home during Christmas, the event involves original skits and songs based on a selected theme. The winning class earns the right to decorate the Stunt Night blanket, which is displayed in the Musick Alumni Center and Museum for one year.
Pageants and Showcases
The Miss MHB Pageant is a student-produced event where representatives from various organizations compete for scholarships. Contestants are evaluated on their platforms, group dance, individual talent, and evening gown stroll.
Similarly, the Crusader Knights event began in 1993 for the men of UMHB. This two-night themed competition features group numbers, video skits showcasing personality and talent, and evening attire. The winner is officially dubbed Mr. Crusader Knight by the university president.
Homecoming
Since 1909, Homecoming has allowed alumni to reconnect with the campus. While historically held in either spring or fall, it is now a fall celebration centered around football activities, featuring a pep rally with fireworks and the selection of the Homecoming Court.
Campus Policies and Climate
The university maintains specific religious standards regarding student conduct. The UMHB Student Handbook prohibits homosexual behavior. Furthermore, in 2015, the university received a Title IX exception allowing it to exclude LGBT student organizations based on religious grounds. Consequently, in 2016, the organization Campus Pride listed the college among the worst schools in Texas for LGBT students.
Summary of Major UMHB Traditions
| Tradition | Purpose/Focus | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Easter Pageant | Religious Observance | Student-produced Holy Week reproduction |
| Charter Day | Institutional History | Wreath placement on Judge R.E.B. Baylor's grave |
| Stunt Night | Class Spirit | Skit and song competition |
| Midnight March | Graduation Rite | Candlelit march around Vann Circle Drive |
| Dubbing Ceremony | New Student Welcome | Ceremonial sword dubbing |
| Robing Ceremony | Leadership Transition | Seniors gowning the junior class |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the song "Up with the Purple"?
It is the alumni/senior song performed during Charter Day and the Robing ceremony, symbolizing the transition of leadership and the bond between graduating students and alumni.
How long has the Easter Pageant been a tradition at UMHB?
The university has produced the outdoor reproduction of Holy Week for 79 consecutive years.
What happens during the Dubbing Ceremony?
New students are dubbed as "Crusaders Forever" with a ceremonial sword by the university administration during Welcome Week.
What is the history of Stunt Night?
It was started in 1909 by George Rosborough, a physical education instructor, to provide activities for students who remained on campus during the Christmas holidays.
What are the university's policies regarding LGBT organizations?
The university has a Title IX exception that allows it to exclude LGBT student organizations for religious reasons, and the Student Handbook prohibits homosexual behavior.