The University of Findlay - Campus Traditions

Traditional events, while rooted in the past, have a way of taking on current significance as different student organizations shape the events each year.

Arch Ceremony - The Griffith Memorial Arch honors the memory of Miss Caddie A. Griffith, Class of 1909. While in college, she was known for her “wit, intelligence, good looks, and – at 5’ 10”—her starring role on the girls basketball team,” according to Dr. G. Richard Kern in his book, “Findlay College: First Hundred Years.”

She headed the Findlay College department of English in 1914-1916 and 1917-1918, before going on to serve as dean of women at Franklin College, Indiana, and Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio. The entrance to the College was erected by her parents, Mr. & Mrs. F.H. Griffith, in 1923 after she died of intestinal flu while at Ohio Wesleyan.

Early photos show a post standing in the middle of the arch. This was installed in 1927 to prevent motorists from driving through the arch onto the campus. By 1953, large cracks were appearing in the deteriorating mortar and the arch was reconstructed in time for commencement that year.

In 1990, the arch was again reconstructed and located 30 feet farther back from Main Street. The reasoning for this was to allow more room for students to safely march through the arch after graduations. After the institution was renamed in 1989, the back of the top arch was inscribed with “The University of Findlay” and turned toward Main Street in 1990. The old Findlay College name now faces Old Main.

The Arch in the 1940s

Griffith Arch is the focal point of some of Findlay’s longest held traditions. Each year just before classes start, incoming first-year students march in through the arch to signify their beginning at Findlay as they are greeted by the faculty.

During their undergraduate years, students are careful not to walk through the arch until they graduate in homage to the light-hearted superstition that those who go through sooner won’t make it to graduation. After each commencement, the graduates mark the completion of their time at UF by marching out through the arch as they are applauded by the faculty who are lined up on both sides of the arch.

Black History Month – Each February, a variety of programs is sponsored by the Black Student Union to educate and inform the University community about African-American culture.

Greek Week – All fraternities and sororities on campus unite to sponsor a week of fun activities with the focus being to promote Greek life on campus.

Homecoming – The Campus Program Board (CPB), in cooperation with the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations, sponsors annual homecoming events that feature a campus homecoming court and other special activities throughout the week.

International Night – International students display different customs, foods and entertainment during International Night. The International Club, International Education Council, Student Government Association (SGA) and community organizations collaborate to produce this special event.

President's Honors and Awards Day – Held in the spring before final exams, this special event honors students who have distinguished themselves in academic work, sports, service, leadership and citizenship.

Sibs and Kids Weekend – Students on campus invite their sisters and brothers for a weekend on the UF campus. Numerous social events for all ages are held throughout the weekend. Sponsored by CPB, SGA and other student volunteers, this event draws many young people to the residence halls.

Spring Bash – The Campus Program Board, with the cooperation of many student organizations, provides several days of activities and entertainment to celebrate the end of winter and the return of warm weather.

Wing Off - Hosted by the Theta Chi fraternity each fall, the Wing Off is an annual event during which student organizations create their own barbecue sauce and compete for the honor having the best wings.