Celebrating the Past as We Welcome the Future

Traditions represent a distinguishing mark of life at Seton Hill. Traditional events are held throughout the year and represent the four guiding principles of the University: welcoming, celebrating, learning and service.

Opening Liturgy

At the beginning of each academic year, we gather as a faith community to ask for God's blessings for everyone on "the Hill."

Labor of Love & Take the Day On

At the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, the Seton Hill community as a whole gets together for a day of volunteer service at a variety of sites in the local and regional community. Take the Day On commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and commitment to service, and includes an educational program.  

Homecoming & Family WeekendGriffin at Homecoming

Homecoming and Family Weekend, held each fall, is packed with fun-filled events for everyone, from current students and their families to alumni.

Thanksgiving

Before heading home for the Thanksgiving holiday, we host a family-style turkey dinner with all the trimmings and grace is offered to different faith groups.

Students Participating in Crib CeremonyChristmas on the Hill

As Christmas nears, campus is especially alive with activity. The celebration officially begins right after Thanksgiving break with the annual crib ceremony, where members of the freshman class participate in a special service during which the school's traditional nativity scene is set up. Soon after, Seton Hill's Music Program holds its annual Christmas Concert, and Campus Ministry holds its Operation Christmas Basket market and gift sale to raise funds for needy families in the area. A formal celebration that includes a candlelight dinner for students, followed by Christmas liturgy and the Christmas dance, is held just prior to Christmas break.

Tree Planting

Every spring, the junior class plants a tree on Seton Hill's campus. It not only serves as an enduring memory of their class, it also helps beautify the campus for the generations that follow.

Painting of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Celebrations

Seton Hill hosts annual events to celebrate Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton's birthday and feast day.

Fall & Spring Convocation

Each fall and spring we host a special ceremony to recognize those students who have received academic and service honors during the previous year. A special guest speaker gives a keynote address at the event.

Baccalaureate & Commencement

A December commencement is held for those students completing their degree studies by August or December. This ceremony incorporates a vesper service with the academic events. May commencement ceremonies are held on a Saturday early in the month, with a baccalaureate Mass held on the Friday evening preceding Commencement. 

Class BannersClass Banner for Year 1951

Each class at Seton Hill designs and creates a banner representing its class colors and motto. Seton Hill displays the class banners during May commencement ceremonies and at various Homecoming and alumni events and celebrations.

Alumni Weekend

Every June, Seton Hill alumni gather for an annual reunion on campus, with special celebrations planned for five-year anniversary classes.

The Seton Hill Lecture Series

Seton Hill hosts a series of lectures, workshops and events that brings well-known speakers and performers to campus. Events are open to the public, and many of them are free.