Varsity Welcome, c. 1929. Every fall, a new crop of students arrived in Madison to begin their academic experience. “Varsity Welcome” on Bascom Hill was one of their first opportunities to meet fellow students and participate in a campus-wide activity as an new Badger. Students would march in formation up the hill to be greeted by the University president and other campus “notables.”
This time honored tradition is now known as Wisconsin Welcome and includes a variety of activities for new and returning students such as orientation events, the Chancellor’s Convocation and more!
The tradition of Varsity Welcome continues today with Wisconsin Welcome. (Bryce Richter - University Communications)
Welcome to UW-Madison! You are now part of our campus history.