Traditions
Founded in 1839, Mizzou has had plenty of time to create long-lasting traditions. Some have become universal symbols of the college experience.
Tigers Roar Louder
Nothing gets the energy going like the Mizzou spirit chant. Whether you're at the big game or just strolling across campus, you’re sure to hear someone cheer: “M-I-Z!”
And when you hear it, there’s only one way to answer: “Z-O-U!”
Homecoming
The nation’s first, the world's best
The nation’s first Homecoming was held in 1911, when football coach Chester Brewer invited Mizzou alumni to “come home” to cheer on the Tigers. His call drew a crowd of more than 9,000 as Mizzou took on the University of Kansas Jayhawks.
To this day, Mizzou’s Homecoming remains one of the country’s most electrifying collegiate events. So much more than a football game, this city-wide celebration is a declaration of what it means to be a Mizzou Tiger. In addition to our spectacular Homecoming parade, talent show and tailgates, Homecoming is an opportunity for Tigers to come together to support good causes — including one of the nation’s largest annual blood drives. And with more than 370,000 alumni around the globe, the excitement on campus and in Columbia — and anywhere else a Tiger may call home — reaches a roaring pitch.
The Columns™
Six Ionic-style columns tower proudly over our historic Francis Quadrangle. Built with local limestone, the Columns™ originally provided structural support for Academic Hall, Mizzou’s first campus building. Although a devastating fire swept through Academic Hall in 1892, the Columns survived. More than a century later, they stand as a testament to our collective strength, shared history and as a symbol of the University of Missouri. As then President Rothwell said, “Let the Columns stand. Let them stand for a thousand years.”
Tiger Walk
In August, the freshman class gathers on the Francis Quadrangle for a celebratory sprint through the Columns toward Jesse Hall. Held during Welcome Week just before classes commence, Tiger Walk serves as a joyful initiation into the adventure we call Mizzou.
In May, graduating seniors reverse the route at Senior Sendoff. This final run through the Columns™ is a symbolic exit into the world beyond, solidifying the enduring connection alumni have to Mizzou and to their fellow Tigers.
Painting the Rock M™
In 1927, a group of students used boulders left over from the construction of Memorial Stadium to create a large traditional block letter “M.” Since then, each incoming freshman class has carried on the tradition of painting the Rock M™. Today, the Rock M™ is more than the painted rocks in the stadium, it’s synonymous with Mizzou and its world-class education and top-tier athletic events and programs. Measuring 90 feet wide by 95 feet tall, the Rock M™ requires hundreds of gallons of white paint and plenty of mops to apply it. One of many fun Welcome Week events, Paint the Rock M™ is an opportunity to meet classmates and set the tone for the exciting year ahead.
David R. Francis' Nose
Mizzou attracts some of the best students in the country, but a little extra luck never hurts — especially during finals week! A bronze sculpture depicting former Missouri Governor David R. Francis, a strong Mizzou supporter during his time, can be found just northeast of Jesse Hall’s front entrance. It’s said that any student who rubs his nose will earn an A on their next exam, a practice so popular that the nose has required replacement three times.
Truman the Tiger
There’s no Tiger like Truman. Our beloved mascot makes more than 400 appearances every year, bringing his signature tail spin to Mizzou football and basketball games as well as visits to hospitals, schools, community events and campus gatherings. Truman’s energy — and his dance moves — are unmatched, earning him the title Best Mascot in the Nation in 2004, 2014 and 2024.
Memorial Union
The 143-foot Gothic Revival clock tower at the center of the structure is dedicated to Mizzou students who died in service to the United States during World War I, World War II, the Spanish-American War, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and the war in Afghanistan. It is customary for students walking through Memorial Union’s arches to tip their hats and speak in a whisper as a show of respect to our fallen soldiers.
Engineering Shamrock
Did you know St. Patrick is the patron saint of engineers? With this in mind, students in the College of Engineering extend St. Patrick’s Day into a longer celebration known as Mizzou Engineers’ Week — also known as E-Week. Shamrock Plaza, the space between Lafferre and Switzler Halls, is home to a cut concrete shamrock medallion that serves as a reminder of this connection.
Peace Park
Tucked away on the northern edge of the Mizzou campus, Peace Park is a popular place to relax in a wooded setting. The four-acre plot is the oldest undisturbed land on the main campus. Stroll across the legendary McAlester Bridge to study, relax or just watch the campus squirrels frolic from one of Peace Park's many park benches.