Princeton Traditions
Generations of Princetonians -- and '13 now among them! -- have hailed Princeton as "the best old place of all." The Princetoniana Committee of the Alumni Council wants to help you discover why, through Princeton's rich history, traditions, and lore. (Did you know, for example, that Princeton was the very first college to call her campus a campus?)
Princeton was founded as a place of learning, liberty, and tolerance. It is no accident that Princeton was at the spiritual heart of the American Revolution, that John Witherspoon was the only college president and clergyman to sign the Declaration of Independence, and that James Madison 1771 was the intellectual force behind the Constitution. The spirit of learning, liberty, and tolerance still flourishes at Princeton in a continuum that links you with your classmates and fellow alumni, across the years and the generations, in affection for each other and for Old Nassau. (Did you know, by the way, that Madison founded our Alumni Association?)
The Princetoniana website will help you get to know your university. Take a look, take your time. Visit more than once, as we'll continue to update this site. During Freshmen Week, you will find great opportunities to learn about and enter, the ongoing stream of Princeton's history and tradition. You will issue forth from the Opening Exercises into the Freshman "Pre-Rade", figuratively joining the long line of classes in Princeton's unique Reunion P-Rade. You will be introduced to Princeton's songs and cheers at the Freshmen Step Sing that afternoon. Orange Key student guides will welcome freshmen and their parents with illustrated history talks at each residential college check-in, and will lead historical tours through the campus.
Even as you get to know Princeton as "the best old place of all" we know the Class of 2013 will continue to transform her into the "best new place of all." With your character, intelligence,energy, and talents, that's inevitable! Cheers to the good-luck Class of '13! Welcome Tigers!
Donald Farren '58
Chair, Alumni Council Committee on Princetoniana