UA Traditions
Like most families, the University of Arkansas has its own traditions; some have been around for a long time and some not so long. One thing stands true, all of our traditions are an important part of the heritage and pride of this institution. The Arkansas Alumni Association prides itself in honoring and upholding these traditions and passing them down to future generations.
Alma Mater
In 1909, Brodie Payne, an alumnus of the University of Arkansas, submitted his song to an ongoing competition to find a University song and won first prize. Henry D. Tovey, who was the director of the Glee Club at that time, set the song to music.
Senior Walk
Senior Walk is one of our most revered traditions. It is unique among American universities and is one of the most widely known University of Arkansas traditions.
The Fight Song
The Fight Song used today at the University of Arkansas was written in the late 1920s. We play the fight song at every home Razorback football, basketball and baseball game.
Calling the Hogs
Razorback fans have been "Calling the Hogs" since the 1920s. It is said to have begun when a group of farmers attending a game began issuing hog calls to encourage a lagging Razorback football team.
Old Main
Old Main was constructed between 1873 and 1875 as part of a land grant. Originally known as University Hall, it is the oldest building on the University campus and one of the oldest buildings in the state.
Official UA Ring
The Official Ring was developed as the one and only ring that symbolizes not only the goals achieved by UA graduates, but also to create a tradition with the purpose of fostering loyalty, pride and recognition of the U of A among graduates and alumni.
Homecoming
Homecoming for the University of Arkansas originated in 1922 and was established as a series of events that would involve both the student body and UA alumni.
Razorback Marching Band
The Razorback band is one of the oldest collegiate bands in the United States. It was formed in 1874 as the Cadet Corps Band as part of the military art department.
School Colors and Mascot
While addressing a large group of students at the Fayetteville train station, after returning from a 16-0 victory over Louisiana State on October 30, 1909, Coach Bezdek informed the crowd that his team had performed not like football players but "like a wild band of Razorback hogs."
Running Through the A
The University of Arkansas has a special way of welcoming its football players onto the field of every home game they play. It is called RUNNING THROUGH THE "A."
Tau Beta Pi Key
The Tau Beta Pi key is a monument, which was erected by the Tau Beta Pi engineering society featuring a twisted replica of their well-known key.
Spoofer's Stone
In the early days of the University, male and female students were not allowed to fraternize in any way while on campus. This put a great strain on the social life of the "Campsters". And thus a great tradition was born.
Historical Markers
The Historical Marker program was implemented to preserve the history of the University of Arkansas and complement the wonderful tradition of Senior Walk and was sponsored and paid for by the Arkansas Alumni Association.
