Rice University’s Founder’s Court looked less like the serene grassy knoll it usually is and more like an illuminated music festival Friday evening as around 2,000 students gathered for Moody Fest. Themed Glow this year, it was a lively celebration filled with live music, games, complimentary bites from local vendors and custom swag like light-up sticks and radiant headpieces.
Now in its fourth year, Moody Fest has become a standing spring tradition. The festival commemorates the Moody Foundation’s landmark $100 million donation in 2021, Rice’s largest single gift dedicated to enhancing the student experience. The funding supports the construction of a new student center and a dozen endowments, collectively called the Moody Experience, aimed at enriching undergraduate and graduate life and learning.
“Moody Fest continues to be an exciting end-of-the-year celebration for our students that showcases student talents and highlights the transformational support the university has received from the Moody Foundation,” said Andy Osborn, program manager of educational initiatives. “We are excited to see it continue to grow and evolve as it becomes an annual tradition that students will look forward to for many years to come.”
Students enjoyed free fare from the Raising Cane’s, Papa Johns, Birria Los Primos and Kona Ice while taking in performances by student groups BASYK, AKOMA, KASAMA, Basmati Beats, Rice Lions, Mariachi Luna Llena and Not Rocket Scientists. The evening concluded with a headlining set by LUCØ, an electronic dance music duo who blend emotional, singalong songwriting with explosive, festival-ready production. Attendees also played games and took advantage of the photo opportunities, and they took home free merchandise, including a T-shirt designed by student William Liu who won a $250 reward for his winning design.
“I do love Moody Fest,” sophomore Colt Adams said. “It is definitely one of our most wholesome traditions. It feels more like my home. It’s very like light and happy vibes, which I appreciate.”
Senior Tomi Kuye also shared her love for the event. “Moody Fest highlights what Rice is all about. Seeing everyone together and the community that comes together, especially at a pivotal time like the last day of classes, is refreshing. To have such an event put on at Rice makes college feel a lot less draining and more fun and upbeat. I always look forward to Moody Fest.”
Sophomore Adhira Tippur said the event offered a much-needed break from academic pressures. “Having this event on the last day of school and right before we have to lock in and study for finals, it’s a nice event to go out with your friends one last time. I feel like it’s also a great way to meet new people.”
Since 1964, the Moody Foundation has been instrumental in shaping Rice’s academic and extracurricular landscape. From the establishment of the Frances Moody Newman Endowed Chair to broad-based student programs, its nearly 60-year legacy continues to strengthen Rice’s reputation as a center of opportunity and growth.
