Loyalty develops around traditions, and yet traditions are an expression of loyalty. Which comes first--which begets which--is inconsequential. It is sufficient to recognize the interplay or interrelationship.

 

While some traditions fade away, others come into being. Thus it is that each generation of students has the privilege and obligation of preserving or not preserving and of adding to traditions according to their interpretations of what is significant and what is essential to the heritage.

 

It is with pride that the following traditions and traditional events are here set forth.

 

Traditions. The university colors, adopted many years ago by the students: blue and white.

 

The seal of the university is one of its most cherished traditions. It is affixed to diplomas and other documents. It is displayed in a place of honor at the entrance to the library, bearing ensigns representing our dedication to growth, construction and learning with a hand holding a light above all and the motto "Think, Work, Serve." It deserves respect at all times and is not to be walked upon.

 

The university's logo combines a script acronym and cupola which proclaims the traditional and future elements in the school's heritage.

 

The university's charge, "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve," is inscribed over the proscenium arch of the Walter S. Davis Humanities Building.

 

It is a memorable and respected tradition of the alumni association to induct the candidates for degrees into the association during the commencement ceremonies.

 

Other traditional events are: Opening Convocations, Inauguration of the Student Government Association President and Vice President; Miss TSU Coronation; Greek Show; Homecoming Week; John Merritt Classic; Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony; Student Elections Week; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Convocation; Commencement Exercises; Founders' Day and Academic Awards Day.