UA Traditions

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There's something special about traditions.  Like most families, the University of Arkansas has its own traditions; some have been around for a long time and some not so long.  One thing stands true, all of our traditions are an important part of the heritage and pride of this institution.  The Arkansas Alumni Association prides itself in honoring and upholding these traditions and passing them down to future generations.

		Alma Mater In 1909, Brodie Payne, an alumnus of the University of Arkansas, submitted his song to an ongoing competition to find a University song and won first prize. Henry D. Tovey, who was the director of the Glee Club at that time, set the song to music.
		Senior Walk Senior Walk is one of our most revered traditions. It is unique among American universities and is one of the most widely known University of Arkansas traditions.
		The Fight Song The Fight Song used today at the University of Arkansas was written in the late 1920s. We play the fight song at every home Razorback football, basketball and baseball game.
		Calling the Hogs Razorback fans have been Calling the Hogs since the 1920s. It is said to have begun when a group of farmers attending a game began issuing hog calls to encourage a lagging Razorback football team.
		Old Main Old Main was constructed between 1873 and 1875 as part of a land grant. Originally known as University Hall, it is the oldest building on the University campus and one of the oldest buildings in the state.
		Official UA Ring The Official Ring was developed as the one and only ring that symbolizes not only the goals achieved by UA graduates, but also to create a tradition with the purpose of fostering loyalty, pride and recognition of the U of A among graduates and alumni.
		University of Arkansas Homecoming Get the latest information and the most up-to-date events calendar for this year's celebration! You can also download an entry packet, learn more about how to volunteer at Homecoming events, and find helpful resources and contact information.
		Razorback Marching Band The Razorback band is one of the oldest collegiate bands in the United States. It was formed in 1874 as the Cadet Corps Band as part of the military art department.
		School Colors and Mascot While addressing a large group of students at the Fayetteville train station, after returning from a 16-0 victory over Louisiana State on October 30, 1909, Coach Bezdek informed the crowd that his team had performed not like football players but like a wild band of Razorback hogs.
		Running Through the A We have a special way of welcoming our football players onto the field of every home game. The Razorback Marching Band concludes home pre-game performances by forming a giant A. While holding formation, they march the length of the football field until the top of the A reaches the Arkansas locker room side end zone. The band plays, the crowd cheers &  players rush through the A onto the field upholding this long-standing tradition!
		Tau Beta Pi Key The Tau Beta Pi key is a monument, which was erected by the Tau Beta Pi engineering society featuring a twisted replica of their well-known key.  It was dedicated on April 25, 1925 and quickly joined Spoofer's Stone as a favorite place near Old Main.
		Spoofer's Stone In the early days of the University, male and female students were not allowed to fraternize in any way while on campus. This put a great strain on the social life of the 'Campsters'. And thus a great tradition was born.
		Historical Markers The Historical Marker program was implemented to preserve the history of the University of Arkansas and complement the wonderful tradition of Senior Walk. It was sponsored and paid for by the Arkansas Alumni Association. The markers commemorate research and intellectual achievements, notable leaders, outstanding alumni, historic events, sites and campus lore and are placed in locations appropriate to the celebrated subject.