EAGLE WALK
The Place
The Eagle Walk, located under the east side of The Rock on Eagle Walk Drive, displays the memories of our past and the promise of our future. It recognizes the greatness of all those who have had the privilege of going to battle for the black and gold.
The Painting
Each year during Golden Eagle Welcome Week, the Student Alumni Association sponsors the Painting of the Eagle Walk. This event is where the incoming class gathers to leave its signature on the University by giving the Eagle Walk a fresh coat of gold paint. This time-honored tradition began in 1997 and transforms Eagle Walk Drive into a street of gold.
The Event
A game day parade, Eagle Walk is a celebration of the spirit of Southern Miss football. Hours before kickoff, a cannon is fired and participants march from the Aubrey K. Lucas Administration Building to The Rock. The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band strikes up “Southern Miss To The Top!” as thousands cheer their Golden Eagles to victory.
SCREAMING EAGLES
Started in fall of 2021, Screaming Eagles is the youngest tradition at Southern Miss. Hosted by the student organizations of the Alumni Association and Southern Miss Athletics, Screaming Eagles is designed to instill a sense of gameday tradition in the current student body. Students enjoy a first flight experience of running onto the field while The Pride of Mississippi Marching Band debuts their pregame show.
HOMECOMING
Homecoming is a week full of festivities. Students pack the week with pep rallies, building lawn displays, the Bring It On Eagle Style dance competition, and more.
Alumni join the fun too, with the Southern Miss Alumni Association hosting an annual scholarship golf tournament and alumni awards ceremonies, including the annual Alumni Hall of Fame Banquet which honors the University’s most dedicated and distinguished alumni.
The weekend comes alive with concerts, reunions, tailgating, and the Homecoming Parade, before everything culminates in Saturday’s football game.
THE LITTLE ROCK
Located in The District, the Little Rock is regularly painted with messages to energize campus. Student organizations use it to spread the word about events and show their Southern Miss spirit.
LIGHTING THE WAY FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Holiday cheer overflows during the annual Lighting the Way for the Holidays celebration. This campus celebration includes holiday music, hot chocolate, and photos with Seymour and Santa Claus. The University’s live Christmas tree sits on the south lawn of the Aubrey K. Lucas Administration Building.
RIGHT FIELD ROOST
The Right Field Roost is a special spot beyond the right field wall at Pete Taylor Park. During baseball season, fans fiercely support Golden Eagle Baseball. More than just watching baseball, the Roost is known for creating memories, friendships, and traditions that stretch through generations.
FOUNDERS’ DAY
March 30, 1910, marked the legislative founding of The University of Southern Mississippi and is recognized as the is the institution’s official birthday. This day has been observed since 1955, when it was designated by the Alumni Association as a day to honor culture and tradition at the institution. While the events of this day have changed over the years, Founders’ Day serves to honor the University's legacy, celebrate its achievements, and inspire students to carry on its values.
Protected by our Traditions Resolution signed in 2007, the traditions of The University of Southern Mississippi are deeply treasured. Discover more of our beloved traditions inside The Drawl.