Alvernia University has developed a number of traditions and yearly events since it opened in 1958 as a college for the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. Here are some things you have to look forward to when you join the Pack.
Candlelight Commissioning
The candlelight ceremony is a tradition for all undergraduate students at Alvernia. For the first ceremony, on the eve before Fall classes begin, the campus community gathers on the quad and welcomes the new incoming class. This ceremony features the First Year Class Pledge and candle lighting. The ceremony includes the singing of our Alma Mater and a special blessing over the incoming class.
58 Cheers
As an event leading up to graduation and signifying the institution's founding in 1958, students are encouraged to invite a special faculty or staff member that has made an impact on their time at Alvernia. At the event, they are given the chance to spend some quality time together to relive some memories and allow for some thanks and goodbyes.
Saint Francis Day of Service
Saint Francis Day of Service is a university-wide celebration occurring the Saturday in October that falls closest to the Feast of Saint Francis, which commemorates and celebrates the life of Saint Francis of Assisi. Service to others is central to Alvernia's Franciscan mission, reflecting the elemental values of humility and simplicity. Every year, students, faculty, staff, and alumni gather to serve in honor of Saint Francis. The Holleran Center for Community & Global Engagement organizes this day of service in accordance with Saint Francis’s mission of serving the underserved.
Campus Activities Board's Carnival
CAB's first big event of the fall semester features a variety of inflatables, carnival games for a chance to win raffle prizes and free food!
Wild West Wednesday
This is Campus Activities Board's western theme carnival event during the spring semester. Similar to the fall, there will be inflatables, free food and carnival games for students to have a chance to win prizes!
Spring Fling Weekend
Student Activities hosts a variety of events during the last weekend of April to celebrate a great academic year, including Wolfpack Jams, Block Party and MegaPrize Bingo. Wolfpack Jams offers live musicians, lawn games, tie-dye and a food truck on the quad (sponsored by Campus Activities Board and Residence Hall Association). Block Party features inflatables, a zip line, a photobooth, novelties and free food trucks. MegaPrize Bingo is our biggest bingo event of the year.