Induction unites past with present

The first Freshman Induction Ceremony was in 1933 and was organized by George Ezra Shaeffer, a member of the IU Department of Physical Education.

The ceremony happened annually until 1969, but did not take place from 1970 through 1980. The event reappeared in 1981 and has since been a highlight of Welcome Week events.

The first Freshman Induction Ceremony was in front of what is today the Wildermuth Intramural Center.

When the formality returned in 1981, there were three changes in the script. A painting called “Spirit of Indiana” was incorporated. The president of the IU Student Association delivered the “Spirit of Indiana” speech and the Pledge to the University was eliminated from the ceremony.

Bloomington’s mayor, Mark Kruzan, was the president of the IU Student Association in 1981 and spoke at the ceremony.

The Freshman Induction Ceremonies for the class of 2015 will be at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. today at the IU Auditorium. President Michael McRobbie and Provost Karen Hanson will lead both ceremonies. Students and their families will learn the IU Alma Mater and ceremonial traditions and will receive a welcome from university officials and other distinguished guests.

An induction picnic will occur after each ceremony behind the Lilly Library and Woodburn Hall.