Annual Events

The Candlelight Matriculation Ceremony

This service, held at the close of Fall Orientation every year, officially inducts new students into the Voorhees family. It also educates them about Voorhees’ founder Elizabeth Evelyn Wright-Menafee. As part of the ceremony, all incoming freshmen gather around the Ebenezer, a rock that’s a college landmark symbolizing Wright-Menafee’s faith and determination. The students light white candles and sing “This Little Light of Mine”— it’s a promise to themselves and to their new college community. They learn about Wright-Menafee’s struggles to create Voorhees. When the ceremony closes, they’re officially freshmen.
 

The Legacy Dinner

Also a part of Fall Orientation, the Legacy Dinner is an opportunity for new students to enjoy a formal evening with their classmates, faculty and staff. The keynote speaker is a recent Voorhees graduate – someone close to the new students’ age who can be a testament to what’s possible with a Voorhees College education. Other alumni are invited to join in the evening as well.
 

Miss Voorhees Coronation

Held in September, the coronation installs the student who will reign as Miss Voorhees for the next year. Miss Voorhees, who’s elected by a vote of the student body, serves as the College’s official hostess. Students who enter the pageant must have demonstrated leadership ability and good character. They also must be have a record of involvement in college activities and community life, as well as a solid academic record.

Homecoming

Held in November, Homecoming Weekend includes class reunions, alumni meetings, social gatherings, a parade and basketball. It’s a chance for graduates to renew acquaintances and connect with current students as well. 
 

Founder’s Day Convocation

The college’s annual salute to Elizabeth Evelyn Wright-Menafee is held in April, the same month she founded Voorhees in 1897. Wright-Menafee, a black woman in her early 20s, battled betrayals, arson, jealousies and threats to establish the school.

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