organizations, in planning programs, helping to raise funds, and supervising
contractual relationships with off-campus organizations. The Campus Services
office is responsible for scheduling the use of College buildings.
Carleton Traditions
Some define a “tradition” as
a ritual, belief or object passed down within a
society, still maintained in the present, with origins in the past. Here are a few
well-known Carleton traditions for your reading pleasure.
Broomball
Broomball is a game played on ice on the Bald Spot rink, kind of like ice hockey
but with shoes instead of skates, brooms instead of hockey sticks, and a ball
instead of a puck. Elbow and kneepads are not technically allowed, although
some players wear them secretly under their clothes in order to make spectacular
diving plays without breaking anything.
Bubble Brigade
In 1970, at President Swearer's inauguration, members of the senior class began
the tradition of blowing bubbles on faculty members at formal Chapel events
from the balcony above.
Convocation
The weekly convocation series is a shared experience that is at the foundation of
Carleton values. Students, faculty and staff from across campus gather for one
hour for a lecture, presentation or performance from specialists in a variety of
disciplines. The goal of the convocation series is to stimulate thought and
conversation outside the classroom on a broad range of subjects.
First Year Frisbee Toss
This ceremony is the official beginning of one's four years at Carleton. During
New Student Week all freshmen are given free Frisbees, line up along the edge
of the Bald Spot, listen to a stirring speech by the college president, and then
toss their Frisbees into the center of the Bald Spot. From then on, they are
Carleton students.
Friday Flowers
Every Friday, the campus mailboxes turn into a flower show as students buy
flowers in the Sayles-Hill Campus Center and "mail" them to their friends.
International Festival
The International Festival features food, music, dance, and cultural workshops
from countries around the globe in spring term. Anyone can sign up to cook for
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