Stepsinging. In a tradition that evolved from informal social gatherings, students began to assemble to sing on the steps of Houghton Chapel after its dedication in 1899. Today, students assemble by class four times a year dressed in their class colors to try to out-sing and out-cheer the others. The rainbow colors are a reminder that despite differences, Wellesley students form a cohesive and dynamic community of scholars.

Hooprolling began with an activity once held on May Day, which students celebrated as a day of frivolity and of escaping from real-world worries into a day of child’s play. Students would dress up in children’s clothing and play games on Severance Green. One of the most popular was a race in which seniors, clad in graduation robes, rolled wooden hoops. Hooprolling has become a Wellesley institution in itself and is now held independently.

• Color: Blue
• Mascot: never had a mascot
• Motto: Non Ministrari sed Ministrare, “Not to be ministered unto, but to minister”
• Admit Rate: 19% (Class of 2022). Read more