Our events are about more than just having fun. We work to keep WPI's history and traditions alive while bringing students, alumni, and the rest of the WPI community together. Whether it's a tradition that has been around for generations or something completely new, our goal is to help students feel connected to WPI and make memories that last beyond graduation.
The Goat's Head Rivalry is one of WPI's oldest traditions, bringing students together through friendly competition and school spirit. Originally a rivalry between the freshman and sophomore classes, it has since grown into a tradition that everyone in the WPI community can participate in.
Each term, SAS hosts one Goat's Head competition where students have the chance to compete for the Goat's Head Trophy and earn some bragging rights. With four competitions throughout the academic year, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, have fun, and take part in WPI's history.
While the rivalry has changed over time, its purpose remains the same: bringing the WPI community together and keeping our traditions alive.
Every year, SAS hosts and helps organize some of WPI's most recognizable events. These traditions have become a part of the WPI experience, connecting generations of students through shared memories.
Bridge Crossing
Bridge Crossing is the very first tradition incoming students experience during New Student Orientation. The event officially welcomes new students into the WPI community and marks the beginning of their time as part of the Herd.
History Hunt
Held during New Student Orientation, History Hunt introduces incoming students to WPI's campus, history, and traditions through an interactive scavenger hunt. Students explore campus while learning more about WPI and becoming part of the Herd.
Three Cheers for Engineers
Held during New Student Orientation, Three Cheers for Engineers introduces incoming students to three WPI cheers. The event helps new students learn WPI traditions, build school spirit, and get excited to join the Herd.
Rope Pull
Held during A Term as part of Homecoming, Rope Pull is the first Goat's Head Rivalry competition of the academic year. Students compete in a traditional tug-of-war for the chance to win the Goat's Head Trophy.
Herd Day
Herd Day celebrates WPI school spirit and what it means to be part of the Herd. SAS hosts this event with Gompei, offering free WPI merchandise and giveaways to bring the campus community together.
Haunted Higgins House
Every Halloweekend, SAS transforms Higgins House into a haunted house for the WPI community. The event brings students together for a night of scares, creativity, and Halloween fun.
Founder's Day
Celebrated on November 11, Founders Day recognizes WPI's history by highlighting one of the university's founders, chosen by SAS each year. The event celebrates their contributions to WPI through activities, giveaways, and goats.
Are You Smarter Than A Founder?
Held during B Term, Are You Smarter Than a Founder is one of the four annual Goat's Head Rivalry competitions. Students test their knowledge of WPI history and traditions for a chance to win the Goat's Head Trophy.
Gompei's Birthday
Every February, SAS celebrates WPI's favorite goat with Gompei's Birthday. The event brings students together with activities, giveaways, and a chance to celebrate WPI's mascot.
Gompei's Gallop
Held during C Term, Gompei's Gallop is one of the four annual Goat's Head Rivalry competitions. Students compete for the chance to win the Goat's Head Trophy while celebrating WPI school spirit and traditions.
Goddard Day
Goddard Day celebrates WPI alumnus Robert H. Goddard, known as the father of modern rocketry. SAS recognizes his contributions to science and engineering while celebrating WPI's history of innovation and discovery.
Traditions Week
Held during D Term, Traditions Week celebrates WPI's history and traditions. Throughout the week, SAS hosts three events including Pennant Rush, Family Feud, and a Scavenger Hunt to bring students together and celebrate what makes WPI unique.
