Traditions
What was it about Berry that caught the interest of Andrew Carnegie, captured the enthusiasm of Theodore Roosevelt, appealed to the practical mind of Henry Ford and earned his generous support? What is it about Berry today that commands an equal measure of enthusiasm among leading Americans and thousands of loyal friends?
The answers to these questions are found in the fascinating story of founder Martha Berry, her successors and the remarkable institution they have built from a cabin to a college. Berry is a college rich in heritage. Many campus customs are deeply rooted.
Students celebrate the end of the academic year with an annual event called Finals Fest, which is a “spring fling” type event that includes a concert, inflatables, novelties and food.
Honors Convocation is held during the spring semester. Awards and scholarships are given to students who have excelled academically, provided leadership or contributed to the Berry community. Student Work Week, featuring the LifeWorks Awards, is also an annual spring recognition event.
Mountain Day
Each year on the first or second weekend of October, Martha Berry is remembered in a traditional celebration, which is called Mountain Day. The holiday, which celebrates Miss Berry’s birthday, includes several Berry traditions.
The Mountain Day Olympics are on Friday afternoon.
A picnic lunch is held on Saturday at the foot of Lavender Mountain (WinShape Campus).
The lunch is followed by the main event of the day, the Grand March. The music for the Grand March is provided by the college wind ensemble. Students, led by the seniors, join hands, separate and unite in ever-widening lines as they weave a march pattern on the gentle slope at the foot of Lavender Mountain. During the march, students drop donations into the birthday basket, traditionally the number of cents equal to the student’s age. These donations become a part of the Martha Berry Memorial Endowment Fund, established by Miss Berry with gifts made to her to aid The Berry Schools. Traditionally, female students dress in a pastel pink (blue, if senior) dress or skirt and blouse; the male students wear a light blue shirt (white, if senior) and dark trousers. These colors reflect the uniforms worn by past Berry students when specific attire was required. Today, Berry students are invited to wear whatever color and attire they feel best represents their identity.
On the Saturday night of Mountain Day Weekend, students come together in the Clara Bowl to participate in Marthapalooza, a late-night carnival with rides, food, booths, games and music.