Pride & Spirit

Traditions

SUNY Oneonta has many traditional events which showcase our pride in the college, and forge connections between students, alumni, and friends as we come together to celebrate what we all have in common - SUNY Oneonta!

Red Day

Each year we commemorate the founding of the college by celebrating Red Day. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni are all invited to celebrate by wearing red and white and showing their SUNY Oneonta pride either by uploading photos to social media or by coming out to campus and celebrating with us during an annual birthday celebration on the quad complete with games, prizes, entertainment and birthday cake!

Pass Through the Pillars

Pass through the Pillars is a SUNY Oneonta tradition where new students cross through the two remaining pillars of Old Main, Oneonta’s original building. Students literally follow in the footsteps of their predecessors as they walk between the pillars that welcomed students for almost 90 years.

The Pillars are the only remaining pieces of Old Main, which was the first major building on the SUNY Oneonta campus. After significant deterioration, Old Main was razed in 1977. The Class of 2008 raised funds to restore the Pillars of Old Main, which were erected on the new campus in 1980 and are proudly displayed on the Upper Quad. This event has been celebrated since 2004.

Philanthropy Day

The goal of Philanthropy Day is to help educate the student body on the importance of philanthropic giving. On this day, students will write hundreds of letters in thanks to our many campus donors from all over the country. Students also learn about all of the improvements that have been made to campus life and community as a result of our contributing alumni and philanthropic giving.

Alma Mater

The alma mater is sung annually at Commencement, the December Recognition Ceremony, and several Alumni Association events.

Verse I

Oneonta, Alma Mater,
Glorious is thy view;
We, thy children
Love thy honor,
Love thy purpose true.

Verse II

On the distant strengthening hilltops,
On the busy town,
On the pines and shifting shadows,
Look we fondly down.

Verse III

When the coming years shall part us,
From thy fostering care,
We shall turn with fondest yearning
To thy halls so fair.

Chorus

Shout the name…’tis Oneonta!
Loud her glories sing!
With her praises all, unnumbered,
Let the dear hills ring!