During Opening Convocation, all new students participate in an Honor Code Ceremony where the Honor Code is presented to the President and signed by each new student. The Honor Code is then displayed in Main Hall to symbolize the commitment that each Salem student makes to abiding by the Honor Code.

Held in Hanes Auditorium on the day after Fall Semester classes start in August, Opening Convocation is the formal opening of the academic year. Classes process to the ceremony behind their class banners, Seniors wear caps and gowns and traditionally wear funny or outrageous shoes.

First-year students have the option to receive a “Big” in August before Fall Fest. Bigs serve as mentors and introduce their Littles to life at Salem. Transfer students also have the option to receive a “Big” or to be a “Big,” depending on their class standing. Contact Big/Little co-chairs or the Office of Student Activities and Orientation (student.activities@salem.edu) if you have any questions.

Fall Fest at Salem College is one of the most beloved traditions of the year, bringing the entire campus together for a day full of fun and Salem spirit. Classes are canceled so students can fully take part in the celebration, which kicks off early in the morning when the seniors wake up the president and the rest of campus to start the festivities. Throughout the day, students enjoy lively competitions between the classes, field day-style games, and plenty of laughter and camaraderie. The excitement continues into the evening with the cherished Big and Little Sib gift exchange, a tradition that highlights the strong bonds and sense of community that make Salem so special.

Our annual Thanksgiving Dinner is a much-loved tradition that brings the entire campus together. The highlight of the festive feast is when the President carves the turkey, symbolizing gratitude, togetherness, and the special bonds that unite students, faculty, and staff during this season of thanks.

Each November, the Office of Student Activities and Orientation hosts our seniors for a candle-trimming session, a meaningful time to prepare the candles for our beloved Christmas Candlelight Service.

This long-standing December Salem tradition honors the Moravian heritage, while being inclusive for people of all faith traditions. The Salem Choral groups perform, and students lead Holiday readings, ending with a brief message of faith. The greater community is invited to attend this annual event in Hanes Auditorium, which culminates with the lighting of Moravian candles.

Held in April, this annual celebration showcases student work across the disciplines and features new faculty research. Classes are canceled on this day so that students, faculty, and staff may attend these important and thought-provoking panels, performances, and presentations that spotlight undergraduate academic excellence.

As part of the Susan E. Pauly Celebration of Academic Excellence, the annual student leadership awards banquet replaces dinner that evening in the Refectory. Students are recognized for outstanding achievement in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and service.

For Salem seniors, Founders Day Convocation is a milestone moment. At sunrise, they robe and gather in front of historic Main Hall, symbolizing the official start of their Commencement journey. Afterward, the class plants a tree to leave their mark on campus before heading to a festive breakfast in the Refectory—a time to laugh, share memories, and celebrate the traditions that connect generations of Salem students.

Founders Day Convocation takes place each April. Seniors wear their robes for the occasion but add a playful twist—showing off quirky, fun glasses that bring personality and laughter to this special tradition.

Honors Convocation, held in Hanes Auditorium during the last week of classes in May, is a fun and memorable way to close out the academic year. Seniors wear their graduation robes, and top them off with funny or outrageous hats—bringing personality and laughter to the ceremony. The event also celebrates students’ hard work with awards for academic achievement, making it a joyful mix of recognition and campus spirit.