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Willamette Day celebrates 184 years of turning knowledge into action

by University Communications,
Students holding Willamette shirts

On Feb. 1 each year, we celebrate the people, traditions, community, and impact of Willamette University with Willamette Day — the anniversary of the university's founding in 1842.

This year, Bearcats marked Willamette Day with sweets, spirit, and style. Here are some photos from the day's celebrations.

Students grabbed swag from a table outside of Goudy — showing off their Willamette pride with shirts and stickers.

Willamette Day

Others participated in the Willamette Day Cake Crawl as cupcakes were enjoyed at stations across campus.

Students holding a Willamette shirt Willamette Day Willamette Day sign A group of students at the swag table

On their way to lunch, groups of students took a moment to share their love of Willamette.

A student with a Willamette shirt Students with a sticker

The 2026 celebration marked 184 years of Willamette University's mission and motto. 

Students at Willamette Day A sign saying "happy Willamette Day!"

To Bearcats across campus and around the world: happy Willamette Day! Non nobis solum nati sumus.

Willamette University

University Communications

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