Rice

Rice’s residential college system turns 50

In 1957, Rice University launched an experiment that would transform the undergraduate experience — the establishment of the residential college system. Fifty years later, Rice’s college system stands not only as the most persistent and distinguishing feature of the ”Rice experience,” but also as the most widely admired and copied college system in the United States.

On the eve of Rice’s second century and the addition of a 10th — Burt and Deedee McMurtry College — and 11th college, the university will celebrate the past and future of this unique element of the Rice heritage.

The yearlong celebration, which will begin March 22 and 23 and extend through homecoming ’07, will feature panel discussions on the past, present and future of the college system and the unveiling of design plans for McMurtry College. Below is a schedule of the events planned for the kickoff celebration.

For the latest information about the anniversary events — including events at individual colleges — visit the 50th anniversary Web site, <http://colleges.50th.rice.edu>. This site also features an online archive of the history of the college system, photos, documents and alumni memories of college life.

Thursday, March 22
”The Origins of Rice’s College System,” 7:45 p.m., Anne and Charles Duncan Hall

Presentation, discussion and unveiling of plans and models for Burt and Deedee McMurtry College, 9 p.m., Anne and Charles Duncan Hall
       
Friday, March 23
”The College System Today,” 5 p.m., Anne and Charles Duncan Hall

Reception, 6:15-7 p.m., O’Connor House

Tuesday, March 27
”50 Years of Beer Bike” by Jen Cooper ’90, 9 p.m., Willy’s Pub

The Beer Debates, 9:30 p.m., Willy’s Pub

Wednesday, March 28
Willy’s Picnic, a campus-wide celebration of the 50th anniversary of the residential college system, 5:30 p.m., Academic Quadrangle

Friday, March 30
”The College System at Rice: The Next 50 Years,” 4 p.m., Anne and Charles Duncan Hall

Saturday, March 31
51st annual Beer Bike