By Ruby Churchill
Photo by Bobby Rutledge
Simpson is not your traditional university—but there are traditions on campus.
Quirky customs sprinkle a touch of intrigue into the lives of students. Simpson may seem like it is all business, sports, and academics, but it has its traditions.
If you have ever wandered near the welcome center in Owens, you have likely spotted A. B. Simpson’s statue—with his shining dome. An age-old practice among students involves giving that glorious scalp a good rub. Rumor has it that after, you’ll be showered with good luck.
Near the pond you might find the campus’s beloved red and white duck. Jacob Greene discovered that he is a Muscovy duck.
“I was curious about the chicken-duck hybrid waterfowl. So when I was out fishing the pond one day, I Googled Conrad’s species. Turns out he is a Muscovy duck,” Greene said.
This special duck has many names, from Marshawn to Conrad to Chicken-Duck, according to Campus Visit and Event Coordinator Noah Bryerton.
“He is named Marshawn as an ode to Marshawn Lynch, the Seahawks’ great running back, whose nickname was Beast Mode,” Bryerton said.
Marshawn waddles around the pond like he owns the place. Frankly, most would say that he does. If you ever need a reminder that life is sometimes best spent swimming lazily in a pond, just look at Marshawn living his best duck life.
Then there’s the mythical one-legged goose. You might be skeptical, but legend has it that this noble creature roams the campus with a sense of purpose. He has been oft pointed out by tour guides to wide-eyed prospective students. If you’re fortunate, you might just catch a glimpse of this majestic beast. Just don’t ask him about his missing leg—some things are best left unspoken.
Now, let’s address the globe in front of Owen’s Center, which once spun with the grace of a ballerina. Unfortunately, it’s been more still than a library on exam week. Until someone finds a rich alum with a passion for spinning globes, we’ll have to settle for the static representation of the world—like a traveler who forgot to pack their sense of adventure.
The campus also has a bridge across the small pond that promises a glimpse of romance. It is said that if you walk across while locking eyes with someone, you will fall in love with them. It’s a risky endeavor. One moment you’re simply enjoying the scenic views, and the next, you’re tangled in a whirlwind romance.
In addition to these there are several other customs that distinguish Simpson. Between Sweet 16 Events and special dorm activities, there is always something to do.
“I love when staff and residents open up their houses and their own space for students to come in and hang out,” Bryerton said, referencing dorm-specific events.
Iconic campus-sponsored events include everything from racing couches down the boulevard at the Davenport Derby to stretching your mind at Trivia Night. There is also the Block Party, Spring Fest, Night Life, the Boat Regatta, and much more.
“They create a culture of belonging. If you know that something is happening and you come up and enjoy it, then you have something to look forward to next year” Bryerton said.
Sarah Jobson is the Dean of Students. She is the mastermind behind Sweet 16 Events. She noted that there have always been traditions on campus that set it apart. For example, during Jobson’s time students thought of a way to highlight the ducks and geese at the pond for visitors.
“We used to paint duck prints on the actual road,” Jobson said.
Jobson elaborated why traditions are important.
“I think making memories is important. I would ask a friend group ‘Well why do you guys go and do things’ and it’s the same reason, like building connections, making memories,” Jobson said. “When you have these old traditions, you talk about them for forever.”
If you have ideas of traditions on campus or at sporting events, Noah Bryerton wants to hear from you. You can contact him via email at nbryerton@simpsonu.edu or visit him in the Student Development Office.
An eclectic mix of traditions defines Simpson University. Remember to rub A.B. Simpson’s head before a test. Be sure to take extra precautions when crossing the bridge, or else you may risk your heart. Participate in Sweet 16 Events when you are able. We can always find a sense of community in the delightful absurdities of campus life.
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