Class Cabinet System

When Westhampton College was founded in September of 1914, the groundwork for the class system had already been laid.  The small group of women who attended classes at Richmond College had worked hard to gather information from other colleges about their class systems, and had their plans ready by the time Westhampton opened its gates for the first time.

There were many good-natured rivalries between the classes, with the odd-numbered classes paired against the even-numbered classes.  The classes competed in intramurals, song contests, and overall spirit.  The odd and even classes differed in the direction they wore their school rings, too.

The Westhampton class system organized a Big Sister/Little Sister program, in which the Junior Class members assisted the first year students in their new surroundings.  Strong bonds formed, which enhanced the odd-even split.

Throughout the years, the class system has initiated many events which have become traditions that are still part of Westhampton today.  One such event was May Day, begun in approximately 1917.  This tradition, though altered in 1989 to fit campus life's changes, continues every year; it is known now as Celebration Night.  Seniors who have shown outstanding leadership in Westhampton College and the larger community have been honored on this special day year after year.

The First Year Tree Planting began as a tradition of Westhampton College in 1923.  One or more trees are given by the new students to the college to symbolize the roots new students have put down, and the growth that has begun and will continue at Westhampton College and beyond.

In the 1930's the Junior Prom was begun, an event where the formation of the Westhampton "W" took place.  In 1973 the dance was moved off campus to a hotel and has been held in both the John Marshall and the Jefferson Hotel.  Westhampton Juniors are introduced along with their academic field(s) of study as they form the "W" formation.  This tradition continues at Westhampton, now called the Junior Ring Dance.  Although the specifics for many events have changed over time, the foundations of these traditions remain.

Class activities throughout the years have focused on carrying on the traditions of the College, socials, fundraisers, and service projects, both in the community and on campus.