Campus Traditions
Many traditions perpetuate the legacy of proud Simmons sisterhood, from weekly "floor snacks" in the residence halls, to the Mr. Simmons contest - a male "beauty pageant" and fundraiser. Yes, some of these events are a little weird. But trust us, traditions make campus life special and provide excellent fodder for cherished memories. Some traditions are nearly a century old, while others have evolved in recent years.
Culture Shock
An annual showcase of food, fashion, and performance from all over the world. Simmons's International Multicultural Association and other student organizations sponsor this wild event in collaboration with the Colleges of the Fenway. Tickets always sell out.
Family Weekend
This annual October event allows student to share their Simmons experience with their families. Activities include celebrations dinners, student performances, fun classes, brunches, and more.
Floor Snacks
Floormates gather in their residence hall lounge or even hallways to catch-up and snack on tasty treats.
Male Tribute Weekend
Held every four years, Male Tribute Weekend provides an opportunity for each student to share the weekend with a significant male who has made an impact on her life (usually her father).
May Day
Simmons's oldest student tradition is the annual May Day celebration, when sophomores serenade the seniors at the break of dawn with pots, pans, and noisemakers. Festivities include a maypole dance at dawn, tree planting, and a strawberry shortcake breakfast.
Moonlight Breakfasts
Organized by the Residence Life team, moonlight breakfasts feed the need for comfort (and coffee) during finals week.
Mr. Simmons Contest
Male beauty pageant? You bet. The annual Mr. Simmons Contest will make you laugh until you cry. Each student residence hall and student organization enters a male contestant. Contestants must demonstrate a talent, model swimsuits, and answer questions from a panel of judges. Proceeds go to charity.
The Simmons Cup
Start training for the Simmons Cup, an annual field day held on the residence campus each spring. Over the years, relay races, scavenger hunts, and volleyball have replaced the javelin throw and horseback events of past. Based largely on school spirit and participation, the Cup is awarded to the residence hall with the most points at the end of the afternoon.
Tea
Tea brewing is a long-standing Simmons tradition. Resident students meet each month to socialize, listen to guest speakers, meet with faculty on an informal basis, and (of course) drink tea. The Honors Program hosts monthly teas for its members to hear guest speakers and keep students up-to-date on information. Many student groups also host small lectures while serving tea.
The Vagina Monologues
For a number of years, Simmons students have annually presented this award-winning play to raise money and awareness to end violence against women.
Valentine's Day Ball
These days Simmons has two Valentine's Day traditions, a formal ball for students held on campus or at Boston area hotel and a Valentine's Day dance for the elderly, a daytime event hosted by Student for Community Outreach.
Winter Wonderland
Before students leave for winter break, Bartol Dining Hall is revamped for a community feast. Faculty and students fill the dining hall, as the College president cuts the ham. The residence halls are decorated with lights and ribbons by their hall councils to complete the winter wonderland feeling.
Women's Legacy Weekend
Held every four years, Women's Legacy Weekend (formerly Mother-Daughter Weekend) provides an opportunity for students to celebrate with the women who have made an impact on their lives.
Read about some of Simmons past traditions in the Library archives »
