Traditions
One of the most fascinating parts of Salem's history is the long list of traditions that students continue to participate in each year. During orientation, the freshman class takes a walk with the president of the college and the college chaplain to Sister Elisabeth Oesterlein's grave. Sister Oesterlein was the first teacher at Salem and was dedicated to the principle of educating young women. During the spring of the senior year, the students again pay homage to Sister Oesterlein by planting a class tree before graduation.
Fall Fest is a great example of a tradition at Salem that helps to build community. It is an all-day competition for which classes are suspended. Students compete by class for a spirit award. The award can be won by singing the loudest in the Refectory, preparing the best skits, or even having the best t-shirt design. Freshman class unity is obvious for the first time at Fall Fest.
The day before Fall Fest is also a great tradition on campus. On this day, freshmen are introduced to their "big sisters." Freshmen receive a junior as a big sister and they keep the same sister until she graduates. As juniors, they adopt their own freshman sister, and the cycle begins again. Your big sister is there to help you make a smooth transition from high school to college.
During the Sophomore-Senior Banquet, held one month before graduation, the sophomore class thanks their sisters for being supportive for two years. The sophomores prepare a banquet with a theme that is kept secret. The Sophomore/Senior banquet is a toast to the senior class and enjoyed by all on campus.
Holiday traditions are also a special part of life at Salem. Students enjoy family-style meals on Sunday evenings, and just before going home for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. At the Thanksgiving Dinner, professors come out to carve the turkeys. At the Christmas Meal, students wear their "season's best" and enjoy a traditional meal, followed by caroling and the campus tree lighting. Every December, seniors gather in the Refectory for a Moravian Candle Trimming. These candles are used during the yearly Salem Candlelight Service. The entire Salem community gathers for the service in Hanes Auditorium. Without it, a Salem Christmas wouldn't be the same.
Convocations mark the official opening and closing of the school year. Opening Convocation, held the night before the first day of classes, gives the student body the opportunity to see the new seniors during the processional in their caps and gowns. Similarly, Honors Convocation marks the end of the academic year. The entire student body, faculty, and staff join the president in celebrating yet another year in the education of women.