To the class of 2017, the latest Green Class (remember this), welcome to Longwood University. In the next four years, you will be taken on quite a thrilling roller coaster. At this particular institution, there are certain traditions you will need to be aware of.
The next 700 words will act as a guide of sorts. Consider this an Urban Dictionary to understanding some of the traditions and lingo of Longwood University.
CHI, Princeps and Greek Life
According to longwood.edu, the secret organization, CHI, seeks to “promote and maintain a spirit of cooperation among students in every phase of college life.” Two ways this is done is through their CHI Droppings and the midnight CHI Walks.
One brisk stroll down Brock Commons (the center of campus) may get you a CHI Dropping. They can be ordinary objects and found just about anywhere on campus. They are desired objects as they are considered good luck charms.
At the end of the year, the CHI Burning is held. This event serves a couple of purposes. The first is that graduating seniors in CHI reveal themselves. The second is that certain students and faculty are honored with CHI Commendations for helping to spread the spirit of Longwood.
And finally, a word to and from the wise, it is not a good idea to step on the CHI Rotundas found along the walkways across campus. Stepping on them is considered bad luck since they represent the spirit of CHI and the spirit of Longwood itself. Instead, it is a better idea to step on the Princeps Crowns to your heart’s content. Princeps is the other secret society on Longwood’s campus “whose primary purpose is promoting leadership in Longwood students,” according to longwood. edu. The seven-pointed black crowns painted on campus sidewalks are known to be good luck to step on.
In addition to these, Greek life has an important place at Longwood University for many reasons. Among these is the fact that four nationally recognized CPC sororities were founded here: Alpha Sigma Alpha, Zeta Tau Alpha, Kappa Delta and Sigma Sigma Sigma.
With organizations in College PanHellenic Council (CPC), Inter-Fraternity Council (IFC) and National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC), Longwood has many opportunities for students to get involved in Greek Life.
Food, Lancer CA$H and the Library
Dorrill Dining Hall (or “D-Hall” for short) will most likely be your go-to dining destination. It is located at the head of campus on Brock Commons. In order to eat there, you will need your Longwood ID card. For different options, Bonus Dollars and Lancer CA$H are vital.
Depending on your meal plan, you will have a set amount of Bonus Dollars to utilize at various locations. The most convenient of these is the Lankford Student Union. This building houses Lancer Café with food options such as pizza and Einstein Bagels. In addition, Bonus Dollars can be used at Java City, Chick-fil-A and Moe’s. Java City is great place to grab coffee between classes. It is also conveniently located right next to the Greenwood Library.When those options are not enough, you can use Lancer CA$H at McDonald’s, the Student Union, Buffalo Wild Wings, Domino’s Pizza, Main Street Bagels, and many other places around town. Check the full list of locations at longwood.edu/lancercard. Events and Happenings
One of the biggest tradition-filled weekends at Longwood is Oktoberfest. The festivities begin Friday with Color Wars. This old tradition is a war with paint between the Red (even graduation years) and Green (odd graduation years) classes. The two line up on opposite ends of Iler Field behind D-Hall. When word is given, students on both sides are free to douse the other with their class paint.
Throughout the weekend, you can enjoy a full line-up of bands behind the student union. Food is provided by Aramark Dining Services, and you can enjoy booths by the various student organizations.
Sporting Events
At the beginning of the school year, athletics are kicked off through the annual G.A.M.E. (Greatest Athletics March Ever). This is an event that begins in Willett Hall ends at the Athletics Complex for a soccer game.
Whether it is Willett Hall for basketball or Charles “Buddy” Bolding Stadium for a baseball game, there are plenty of opportunities to watch the Lancers in action.
While attending these events, keep an eye out for Longwood’s mascot Elwood. You will also find yourself quickly acquainted with the Lancer Lunatics. This student-run organization leads the charge in terms of spirit at sporting events. They will most likely be making a good bit of noise.
