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UCM Traditions
Each year since 1871, generations of students have stepped foot on the UCM campus and brought with them the excitement for new experiences, meaningful opportunities and the future they’re about to create for themselves here. Being a Mule means a lot of things. It means working hard and inspiring innovation. It means finding your pack, creating friendships and making memories that will stick with you for a lifetime. It means graduating with a valuable degree and making a difference. UCM is your stomping ground – it’s time to show your school spirit! Check out some of our time-honored traditions below.
Show Your Red and Black Spirit
Welcome Walk
Everyone – including Mo, our live mule mascot, the marching band, cheerleaders, faculty and staff – comes out to cheer on new students. Not a bad way to start your first official day as a Mule.
Convocation
Let the ceremonies begin! Just as graduation marks the end of your academic journey, Convocation marks the beginning of your time as a UCM student.
Week of Welcome
Meet your classmates and professors, explore campus and dive into university life with a week of fun, free activities.
Get the Red Out
Join thousands of campus and community members at UCM’s annual street fair. Food trucks? Check. Tons of vendors? Check. Stellar performances? Check!
Family Weekend
An awesome way for parents and families to experience all that UCM has to offer, this annual weekend is packed with fun, food, football and events for the whole family.
Color Run
Held the Saturday morning of Family Weekend, this annual event is a bright spot and beloved tradition for both runners and spectators.
Homecoming
A full week of campus competitions culminates in an electrifying pep rally, epic parade and - of course - the big game. Find out why students, families and alumni gather for UCM's biggest event of the year.
Moonlight Breakfast
What's better than a late-night breakfast? How about a free late-night breakfast with friends during Finals Week? Did we mention prizes?
Founders Day
What's a birthday without cake? A celebration of campus past, present and future, enjoy UCM’s birthday bash with a campus-wide picnic on the Quad, photo ops, yard games and CAKE!
Football Cannon
The Mules score a lot of touchdowns, so game days in the fall get pretty loud on campus! You’ll be sure to know when to celebrate from the sound of the football cannon in the end zone of Audrey J. Walton Stadium.
Bronze Mule
A must stop for a photo op, check out the bronze mule located right across the street from Audrey J. Walton Stadium. UCM grads rub the mule's snout for good luck and success!
Live Mascot
We’re the only university in Missouri with a live mascot, so Molly is kind of a big deal on campus. She makes appearances at various events, including Welcome Walk, Founder’s Day and home football games! (And yes, you can pet her.)
Snouts Out
Need the perfect pose for all the memories you’ll be capturing on campus? When in doubt, snouts out! This signature hand gesture is the perfect way to show your UCM pride.
Jingle on the Quad
Holiday magic lights up campus at Jingle on the Quad! Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, take photos with Mo the Mule and Santa and take in the lights - plus our nearly 40 foot holiday tree - across the Quad. Oh, what fun!
Become a UCM Traditions Keeper
Earn prizes when you experience these and other UCM Traditions!
You will find dozens of things to do and places to visit around campus. Check out the traditions that interest you and submit your photos to earn rewards.
Learn MoreContact
University of Central Missouri
P. O. Box 800
Warrensburg, MO 64093
Tel: (660) 543-4111
