Campus Traditions
What are our traditions?
Annual Events
Convocation
A fall tradition that brings together students, faculty and staff to welcome the university’s newest students and mark the beginning of their academic journey.
New Student Onboarding
A guided sequence that helps new students complete key tasks, meet with advisors and prepare for a smooth start to their first year.
Flannel Fest
A full-day celebration of the changing of seasons where students, faculty and staff sport their favorite flannel and enjoy activities to prepare for winter like a chili cook‑off, pie eating contest and line dancing.
MLK Peace Breakfast
The Peace Breakfast commemorates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. while honoring members of the Oregon State community who carry his message and work forward in the present. This event is free and open to the Oregon State University community and members of our surrounding local communities.
Cascades Week
A week‑long celebration filled with campus‑wide events, surprises, prizes and community‑building activities designed to spark school spirit and bring students, faculty, staff and the Bend community together.
Commencement
Annual ceremony that celebrates graduating students’ academic achievements and marks their transition into the Beaver alumni community.
Becoming a BEAVS Tradition at OSU‑Cascades
To become a BEAVS Tradition, the event must meet the following criteria:
B — Build community and a sense of belonging. Connect Bend Beavs across generations of students, staff, faculty and community.
E — Empower students and the campus community. Take a lead role in creating the experience.
A — Create anticipation for the experience. Be widely known and eagerly awaited.
V — Create value based on the Four Pillars of OSU-Cascades. Innovation and Creativity, Diversity and Inclusion, Health and Wellness, Sustainability.
S — Strengthen our ties. Celebrate the shared history of our campus location.