15 Ways to Experience the Hilltop
Opportunities abound at St. Edward’s to live fully, learn purposefully and make a difference — not only for our students, but also for our Hilltopper parents, families and alumni. Join us for programs and activities throughout the year that will engage, inspire and inform you. Celebrate our traditions. Take in the arts. Attend a special forum or lecture. Cheer on our athletic teams. Volunteer for a cause. Whatever your interests, we value and welcome your involvement on the hilltop. Here’s a list of activities to get you started.
Save the Date for the Biggest Weekend of the Year
Every fall, the entire St. Edward’s community — students, families, alumni, faculty and staff — comes together for Homecoming to celebrate our hilltop pride. Fun, food, festivities, athletic games and commemorations fill the occasion. Gather with your St. Edward’s family for this beloved tradition. Parents and students can take a tour of the upperclassman residence halls during Homecoming to prepare to sign up for housing for the upcoming academic year.
Explore Catholic Theology in the 21st Century
Held annually on campus, The Most Reverend John McCarthy Lecture Series brings Catholic religious and lay experts from around the country to discuss issues facing the Catholic Church. The Fall 2019 event featured a presentation by Father Michael Patella of Saint John’s University. Patella spoke on the world of Catholic theology, art and culture that arises from the images and text of The Saint John’s Bible.
Read the Book That’s the Talk of the Hilltop
Each year, St. Edward’s selects a Common Theme and accompanying book that sparks discussions across campus, guides programming and brings a speaker to campus. This year’s Common Theme is Citizenship, with the book: Dear America, Notes of an Undocumented Citizen by Jose Antonio Vargas, who was our guest speaker. Read along this year — and every year — and take part in the conversation.
Attend Thought-Provoking Discussions on Global Issues
The Kozmetsky Center provides informative and timely programs for the university and public on critical world issues. Through its forums, it brings international experts to campus to engage in dialogue with academic, policy and private sector thought leaders. Learn about our events and programs.
Find Enrichment through Contemporary Art
If you appreciate art and a wide range of art techniques and practices, then be sure to check out the professional and student art exhibits at the Fine Arts Gallery. The gallery hosts frequent shows, lectures and programs sponsored by the Department of Visual Studies.
Count Your Steps for a Worthy Cause
Rack up a bundle of steps for your workout during our 5K fun run/walk around the hilltop. Campus Ministry’s Miles for a Mission event raised funds to support international and domestic Service Break Experiences for students.
Celebrate Mass on Campus
Participate in the liturgies of the St. Edward’s Catholic community, and experience Mass at the historic and beautifully renovated Our Lady Queen of Peace of Chapel in the heart of campus. Worship at weekday or Sunday Mass.
Take a Hike on the Wild Side
Some of the best hiking and educational nature programs in Austin take place at the St. Edward’s Wild Basin Creative Research Center. Just 10 miles from campus, the Wild Basin preserve features over 200 acres of Central Texas Hill Country habitat. Participate in guided hikes, star gazing, bird watching, conservation activities and more.
Have a Blast at Hillfest
Just before classes end, our Hillfest campus party kicks off the academic year for new and returning students. All Hilltoppers are welcome! Come on out for this fun and festive tradition. Enjoy food trucks, live music, carnival rides, face-painting, balloon artists, inflatables, and of course, amazing fireworks.
Be of Service
By participating in service projects on Founders Day each October, we honor the many individuals of the Congregation of Holy Cross who helped shape St. Edward’s and inspire the university’s mission. Join us in giving back during Founders Day, by volunteering in your community.
Savor Your Favorite Music
The hilltop is home to an amazing variety of music produced by talented students. The music program includes three vocal ensembles and eight instrumental groups dedicated to different genres, including choral, classical music, chamber music, mariachi, orchestra, guitar, jazz and opera.
Immerse Yourself in Award-Winning Theater
The university’s Mary Moody Northen Theatre offers some of Austin’s finest and most widely praised theater at affordable prices. See outstanding productions where student actors and stage managers work alongside professional theater artists. Secure your seats for a show.
Share in the Holiday Spirit
In December, 72,000+ holiday lights illuminate Main Building and the hilltop, setting the stage for the Festival of Lights. This longstanding tradition honors the season of Advent and includes holiday reflections, music and candle-lighting, followed by other special events on campus. See how we celebrate the joy of the season, and join us!
Parents: Volunteer to Support Admissions
Parents can volunteer in the late fall and early spring to help as Parent Admission Ambassadors. In this role, parents reach out (via phone or email) to parents of admitted freshmen from their areas and answer questions about St. Edward’s. Interested parents should contact Dinah Kinard, director of Admission Partnership Programs, at dinahs@stedwards.edu.
Alumni: Share Your Story at College Fairs
Alumni are welcome to volunteer at College Fairs with the St. Edward’s fair-booth team. Talk to prospective students and families about your St. Edward’s experience and the career preparation and connections your education provided. Interested? Contact Claire Land, associate director of Alumni and Parent programs, at rachell@stedwards.edu.