Traditiation

Every year when the freshmen arrive they embark on a three day introduction of sorts to Whitworth and their Hall called Traditiation. This clever word (tradition + initiation) encompasses everything from meetings, to competitions, to moments of reflection, to welcome dinners. The men and women of East Hall are called Kinsmen and Beauties. Kinsmen on leadership (the traditiators) wear red capes with nicknames on the back while the leadership Beauties wear colorful tutus and crazy vests with roses pinned on them, carry wands, and traipse everywhere we go. It was really special for Hoosier Daddy (Kyle) and Mother Salient (Me) to be involved in this creative three-day event for the first year students.

The competitions are the best. The third night students are on campus we all convene at the Fieldhouse for "Yell-Off." It begins with a massive dance party. Let me tell you - Whitworth likes to dance! Each Hall team takes about 4-5 minutes to yell their Hall chants and cheers as loud as they can on stage in front of everyone. It.gets.crazy. The following night is "Mock Rock" (sort of a lip-sync dance to a 3.5 minute mix of music). This year, the East Hall Beauties took first place! Check out their fly performance here. So proud of these gals - they put this whole thing together on their own in a single afternoon! Rock on, Beauties!

Classes started on Wednesday and Convocation was yesterday morning. The Whitworth community was challenged to use the gift of the mind by being intellectually competent, to practice moral courage, and have hearts of compassion for others. Kyle and I are thankful we get to be at an institution that values these things. Excited to do life with these students each day!