It’s a wrap for Rice University’s 2023-24 academic year, which was filled with traditions — established and new — as well as other exciting events, activities and announcements on campus.
Among the highlights:
O-Week: After completion of move-in day and a matriculation ceremony, new students enjoyed a jam-packed week of activities introducing them to both academic and social life at Rice.
Rice Blue Fridays: A new tradition, Rice faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters are encouraged to wear clothing that bears the Rice logo or features Rice colors each Friday.
Ralph S. O’Connor Building for Engineering and Science: The Ralph S. O’Connor Building for Engineering and Science was officially inaugurated with a ceremony commemorating the late university trustee whose generosity helped make it a reality.
$1 million scholarship honoring Ruth Simmons: Established by the Rice Board of Trustees to acknowledge the work that Simmons, a President’s Distinguished Fellow, has done throughout her career and to reconfirm Rice’s commitment to the community, the scholarship fund will support students who otherwise might not be able to attend the university.
Beer Bike: Now in its 67th year, Rice’s annual intramural bicycle race saw the 11 residential colleges and the Graduate Student Association compete for bragging rights.
Moody X-Fest ’24: More than 1,500 students flocked to Founder’s Court for Moody X-Fest ’24, the signature event to capstone the weekslong celebration of the Moody Experience.
Rice’s 111th Commencement: During two days of festivities, the Class of 2024 graduates celebrated the culmination of their experiences on South Main while also looking forward to the bright futures that await them.