The start of a new academic year at Fordham has always been marked by traditions. Since the University’s founding in 1841, rituals and rites of passage have welcomed students to campus and helped new Rams get off to a good start as they settle into college life.
This year, some new traditions joined the lineup—including events that gave students the chance to explore both campuses and take advantage of all Fordham has to offer.
From a glow-in-the-dark dance party to ringing the Victory Bell, Welcome Week was filled with traditions that brought the community together and celebrated Fordham pride.
Here’s a look at some of the highlights from Welcome Week 2025:
Nearly 250 students arrived early to participate in Urban Plunge, a three-day program that helps new Rams get acquainted with the local community by participating in service projects.
Students gathered at Multicultural and First-Generation Receptions on both campuses to connect with each other and to learn more about Fordham’s resources for first-generation college students.
The traditional Welcome Mass, held on the University Church Lawn, brought families into the Fordham community.
Lincoln Center students and their families attended the traditional Welcome Mass at St. Paul the Apostle Church on Columbus Avenue.
According to tradition, new students bid their families farewell for now after the Welcome Mass and gather on Edwards Parade ahead of a candlelighting ceremony.
After getting moved in, the students took part in the annual candlelighting ceremony to welcome the new class.
Students danced with Ramses on a MetroNorth train from the Rose Hill campus down to Lincoln Center as part of a new tradition that began this year. The train was reserved exclusively for Fordham students for the occasion.
Lincoln Center students visited the Rose Hill campus to dance at a “Glow Rams!” event.
The Class of 2029 gathered for a class photo at Moglia Stadium.
After the class photo, students headed to the Victory Bell, cheered on by orientation leaders.
The ringing of the Victory Bell—a tradition that signals a win, whether celebrating a triumph on the football field or welcoming a new group of Rams.
