Established in 1826, Case Western Reserve University boasts a history that spans nearly two centuries. That history will be on display this week as the campus community participates in Legacy Week, a celebration of the university’s unique growth and positive impact over the years.
Organized by the Office of Student Activities and Leadership, Legacy Week brings together offices and organizations on campus to host programs and events that showcase various aspects of CWRU’s history and traditions.
This year’s programming will feature opportunities to engage throughout the week and one-off events to celebrate specific aspects of campus history. The week will wrap up with the 2021 running of the Hudson Relays, the university’s longest campus tradition. Instead of the typical 26-mile trail, this year’s relay will be 5 miles and seeks to engage all members of the university community, whether they are on campus or at home. Get more details about the event and its history.
But Legacy Week does more than recognize the university’s origins—it calls upon members of the campus community to examine their own history at CWRU. Several student organizations and other units will spend the week reflecting on their specific histories and how that relates to the university’s story as a whole.
The annual event, which was first held in 2017, also aims to drive school spirit and connect individuals based on their shared passion for the university. To show their spirit, members of the university community are encouraged to decorate their office spaces. Campus dining halls also will be decked out in Spartan gear.
There will also be a Virtual GooseChase Scavenger Hunt throughout the week. To participate, download the GooseChase app and enter EZ58K7 as the game code. The first five winners will receive prizes. Those with questions can reach out to studentactivities@case.edu.
Other opportunities to celebrate the university’s history during legacy are included below.
Activism through CWRU’s History
Monday April 19, to Friday, April 23
Join the Undergraduate Diversity Collaborative on Instagram and Facebook throughout the week to explore and celebrate CWRU’s history of student activism through the decades.
USG’s Initiatives Through The Ages
Monday April 19, to Friday, April 23
How much of Case Western Reserve today was influenced by its students? Visit the Thwing Center atrium (or check out the Undergraduate Student Government Instagram) all week to learn about USG’s past initiatives, from the Sparta Center to water bottle fountains. Then, try your luck at trivia at the end of the week to win prizes. An Undergraduate Student Government mug giveaway also will be held Wednesday, April 21, at 3 p.m. in Thwing Center atrium.
“From One History Nerd to Another”
Monday, April 19
4 to 5:30 p.m.
Have you ever wondered about the history of your student organization? Do you ever wonder if famous people performed here? And just who are all these buildings named for? Get a glimpse into how to learn about all of this and more. The special guest presenters will be:
- Helen Conger, university archivist;
- Janice Gerda, associate vice president of student affairs.
They will share their knowledge and tools for how we can all become better “history nerds.”
Register for “From One History Nerd to Another.”
UPB With a Cherry on Top
Tuesday, April 20
3 to 4 p.m. (or until supplies last)
Leutner Pavilion
A custom Mason’s Creamery ice cream flavor will be served in celebration of the federation of Case Institute of Technology and Western Reserve University.
Greek Life Social Media Blast
Tuesday, April 20
Check out the social media accounts of all 25 Greek life chapters as they share some of their history and fun facts about the chapters throughout the day.
Annual Student Leadership Awards Ceremony
Wednesday, April 21
5 to 7 p.m.
The Student Leadership Awards were created by Dr. Dorothy Pijan in 1986 to recognize and honor CWRU’s outstanding undergraduate student leaders. Pijan worked at CWRU as the director of Thwing Center and Student Activities from 1982 to 2003. Pijan was a well-respected and nationally known student union professional. She had a passion, drive and dedication for student leadership. After her death in 2003, the awards were named in her honor to recognize her many contributions to student life at CWRU. Celebrate the legacy of leadership on campus.
Register for the awards ceremony.
Swaggin’ With Spartie!
Thursday, April 22, 1 to 3 p.m.
Kelvin Smith Library Oval
Join the CWRU Spirit Committee and Class Officer Collective to celebrate everything CWRU and get ready for Hudson Relays. Attendees will be able to enjoy free CWRU popcorn and mocktails. All attendees will receive a giveaway and those who participate in CWRU trivia will be entered for a chance to win larger prizes. There also will be an opportunity to snap a photo with Spartie.
Secret Spaces: Some Fun and Quirky Sites on Campus!
Thursday, April 22
6:30 p.m.
There are thousands of stories just beneath the surface of our physical campus waiting to be discovered. You might walk by a clue every day and never even notice it. Join Janice Gerda, associate vice president of student affairs and a loyal CWRU alumna, to learn the stories behind oddities in plain sight, and remnants of the past that are nearly invisible unless you’re looking.
Register on CampusGroups to attend the event and learn about these spaces.
Greek Life House Tours
Thursday, April 22
Noon to 4 p.m.
Visit each Greek Life chapter house for giveaways. While there, make sure to scan the QR codes to learn about Greek Life initiatives and more information about each chapters’ role on campus.
Spartie Swirl Giveaway
Thursday, April 22
3 p.m. until supplies last (first 200 students)
Outside Clarke Tower
Pick up some Spartie Swirl Italian Ice from Mount Granita. Spartie Swirl Ice is mixed berry and lemon swirled Italian ice created just for CWRU. The first 200 students to arrive will get a cup.
Clarke After Dark
Friday, April 23
6 to 10 p.m.
The Residence Hall Association invites members of the community to attend Clarke After Dark, an annual event that recognizes student talent and celebrates community here on CWRU’s campus. This traditional event will have an open mic talent show, during which student organizations and individuals can come together to celebrate CWRU and its students. The event offers an opportunity to hand out safely, listen to live music, enjoy food and celebrate what campus has to offer.