SAINT MARY-OF-THE-WOODS, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — A century-old tradition made its return to St. Mary-of-the-Woods College on Saturday, as over 100 students were honored during this year’s “Ring Day” ceremony.
It was one of the largest classes to be honored during the event, which celebrates third-year students who reach a certain academic standard. President Dottie King said she thinks the ceremony will continue to grow.
“We’re bringing in bigger classes each year so far, and we anticipate an even bigger class this coming fall,” she said. “We do believe this tradition will grow, we even ask ourselves, ‘When will we outgrow this church and have to go to two ceremonies?’”
The tradition started back in 1922, and has become a staple at the college and across generations of families. Emma Saunders, one of the students participating Saturday, said she was the fifth in her family, along with her grandma, mother and two of her great aunts had already received their rings.
“I’m very excited, I received many letters and many gifts,” she said. “I’ll just feel so much better once it’s on my finger.”
King said making it past the 100-year mark was a landmark for the university– and the tradition wouldn’t stop anytime soon.
“A lot of traditions come and go, but this one has become more beloved every year,” she said.