Campus Traditions

The University Seal

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Walking on Seal During Commencement

Legend has it that you should never walk across the University Seal located on Kaufman Mall. If you do so, you will never graduate from Old Dominion University.

Homecoming

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This week-long celebration represents our Monarch Pride! Homecoming includes events such as Monarch Day, Painting Paws on Kaufman Mall, a parade around campus, and a football game!

 

Ice Cream & Cake

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Ice Cream and Cake for The Today Show

During ODU Basketball and Football games, be sure to take part in a one of a kind cheer/dance. You can see how ODU does the Ice Cream and Cake.

Rub the Belly

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In the Lobby of Webb Center, there is a Bronze Statue of our Mascot, Big Blue. If you ever need good luck, "Rub the Belly!"

 

Reign On Banner

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Reign On Banner

During the 2019 football season with the opening of a new stadium, the Reign On banner was introduced. During the 3rd quarter, a large banner is raised through the student section to help show Monarch Pride.

Reign the ODU Mermaid

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mermaid-unveiled_2

"Reign," ODU's mermaid, connects University students and alumni to Norfolk by celebrating the city's symbol. It is part of Norfolk's Mermaids Around Town. Located at Brock Commons, you can claim your crown by taking a picture under Reign's crown. 

 

Dominion Rock

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The Spirit Rock welcomes prospective students and their parents

Dominion Rock, also know as the pride rock, arrived at Old Dominion in 2017. This "canvas" is an avenue of expression for students to show school spirit. Student groups or individual students can paint a message or symbols promoting a particular cause or event.

Examples include organization events, giving a friend a birthday shoutout, or even just displaying art. Students are encouraged to paint the rock before they graduate.

 

Activity Hour

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Dining

Activity Hour provides students with a fun and exciting time on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. During this time, there are no classes on campus. It is a great time for Student Organization meetings, lunch, and just a time to take a break!

Spirit Fridays

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Students show their Monarch spirit

A word of mouth tradition that eventually was enacted by President Roseann Runte and resolved by the Student Senate. All members of the University community are asked to wear either school colors (blue and silver) or ODU apparel every Friday regardless if they are on or off-campus.

Members of the Spirit Team will be randomly sent out throughout campus on certain Fridays rewarding those who observe this tradition with a prize. If you are "caught" wearing ODU colors or apparel, you might just win a prize; so be sure to wear ODU colors or apparel every Friday!

 

Monarch Groups

Access events, announcements & resources across campus. Track involvement, get connected to organizations & find other Monarchs.