Traditions

You’ll leave Union someday, but Union will never really leave you. By the time you're a senior, you'll have accrued enough memorable, fun, and gratifying experiences to last a lifetime—and many of those memories are tied to traditions that link you to thousands of alumni before you. These shared experiences reinforce the importance of tradition at Union, reminding graduates that they remain part of a larger story. Long after commencement, Union’s traditions continue to inspire connection, gratitude, and a lasting sense of home.

Nickname: Garnet Chargers

Motto: Sous les lois de Minerve nous devenons tous frères et soeurs (Under the laws of Minerva, we all become brothers and sisters)

Alma mater: "Ode to Old Union"

You’ll leave Union someday, but Union will never really leave you. By the time you're a senior, you'll have accrued enough memorable, fun, and gratifying experiences to last a lifetime—and many of those memories are tied to traditions that link you to thousands of alumni before you. These shared experiences reinforce the importance of tradition at Union, reminding graduates that they remain part of a larger story. Long after commencement, Union’s traditions continue to inspire connection, gratitude, and a lasting sense of home.

Nickname: Garnet Chargers

Motto: Sous les lois de Minerve nous devenons tous frères et soeurs (SUnder the laws of Minerva, we all become brothers and sisters)

Alma mater: "Ode to Old Union"

SEPTEMBER

Convocation

Marking the official start of the academic year, Union's full community—students, faculty, and staff— gather to welcome the new class. The occasion features musical performances, acknowledges recipients of prestigious teaching awards and last year's Dean's List achievers, and concludes with a community barbecue.

OCTOBER

Toll Day

For over two decades, volunteers from our campus community have ventured across Schenectady to enhance parks and various public spaces. On a designated Saturday, they come together to tidy up parks, lend a helping hand wherever needed.

Students with shovels cleaning up a local park

OCTOBER

Homecoming and family weekend

Every autumn, the Union community gathers in unity to commemorate creativity, uphold tradition, and craft fresh memories. Join us for good food, fun activities, and, naturally, the highly anticipated big game – all of which encapsulate the spirit of this festive fall occasion.

FEBRUARY

Founders Day

Commemorating the anniversary of the granting of the College's charter, Founders Day features a distinguished keynote speaker, student musical performances and recognition of outstanding accomplishments in education.

MARCH

The Dip

Every winter, braving the chill with unwavering courage, students take the icy plunge to raise funds for Union community members battling cancer.

MAY

Springfest

One of the most anticipated events of the year, the student-run Springfest features an array of music from contemporary performers and bands. Past festivals have included DNCE, Charlie XCX, Anne Marie, 24kGoldn, Sage the Gemini and Hot Chelle Rae. The festival takes place on the expanse of lawn known as West Beach.

MAY

Steinmetz Symposium

One Friday each May, classes are suspended to allow hundreds of students to present their research projects to faculty, peers and visiting parents. Topics are fascinating and varied—everything from women's freedom in ancient Athens to anti-nuclear activism.

A student explains her research at the annual Steinmetz poster session.

MAY

ReUnion

Alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends are invited to come together for a weekend filled with receptions, picnics, a parade, celebratory fireworks, and a variety of other activities. Enjoy the opportunity to reconnect with classes from the past and present.

JUNE

Commencement

Each June, in front of Schaffer Library, Commencement ceremonies include a spirited procession through the Nott Memorial's western door. Amid cheers from loved ones, proud students celebrate their accomplishments, marking the end of four years' hard work and the start of a new chapter.