Each year for more than 110 years, hundreds of students, faculty, staff and alumni have participated in the spring ritual of University Day — our campuswide beautification effort.

This year’s event happened Thursday, May 21. Hundreds of volunteers fanned out across campus to plant flowers, weed flower beds, spread bark dust, clean up litter or otherwise spruce up the grounds.

The tradition dates back to 1905 as part of Junior Weekend, when projects included things such as laying the walkway to Deady Hall and were followed by a "feast” on the lawn. University Day has always been a spirited event to prepare university grounds for commencement ceremonies, and though it has greatly evolved since 1905, its roots still lie in campus spirit and community service.

“One of the great aspects of this event is that it gives everybody the opportunity to get outside, enjoy time with friends and colleagues, and give a little back to the campus,” said Amy Quiring, staff advisor for the student University Day committee. “I always hear from the volunteers what a great time they had, and many people come back every year.” 

Each volunteer who contributed at least an hour of service earned a free University Day T-shirt and the satisfaction of contributing to a century-old UO tradition.