Traditions
The University of West Georgia is steeped in traditions new and old. From cherished spots on campus to annual events for our students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community, here are some of the traditions that define what it means to be a Wolf.
Love Valley
Nestled at the heart of UWG's campus, Love Valley is beloved green space rich in both history and activity. According to campus legend, the area was once a lake flanked by residence halls, where couples would meet in secret and fall in love, giving the valley its name. Since it was drained in 1981, Love Valley has transformed into a scenic hub for student life, hosting outdoor events, connecting various parts of campus, and serving as a favorite spot for hammocks, impromptu football games, dog walks, reading, and studying. Its charm and versatility make it a true centerpiece of the UWG experience.
Wolf Walk
On UWG Football game days, the area surrounding University Stadium comes alive with the excitement of Wolf Walk – a spirited tradition in which the football team makes its way through a crowd of fans and cheerleaders on its way to the stadium. It's a moment of connection between the team and the UWG community that sets the tone and builds momentum for the game ahead.
Welcome Back Blast
The Welcome Back Blast kicks off the fall semester with energy and excitement. This annual event welcomes students back to campus with carnival rides, live music, and plenty of activities, creating a fun and memorable start to the academic year.
Fried Chicken Wednesdays
Fried Chicken Wednesdays have been part of campus life for more than two decades. Each week, students head to West Commons for a classic Southern meal featuring crispy fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens, and other comfort food favorites. It's a midweek tradition that always hits the spot.
Homecoming
Homecoming at UWG is a week full of tradition, pride, and connection. From community service events to spirited competitions and celebrations, the week builds up the big game, with students, alumni, and fans coming together to cheer on the Wolves.
"Go West, Go Wolves"
and the wolves up hand sign
A proud symbol of UWG spirit, the Wolves Up hand sign is a go-to gesture at games, campus events, and anywhere Wolves gather. Whether you're cheering in the stands or posing for a photo, throwing up this hand signal is a bold way to show your pride and unity. To make the sign, raise your index finger and pinky while folding your middle and ring fingers down to touch your thumb, forming the shape of a wolf’s head. You'll often hear a call-and-response chant, too: someone shouts, “Go West!” and the crowd answers, “Go Wolves!”
Wolfie
Wolfie, UWG's cherished mascot who was introduced in 2005 following a university-wide vote, brings energy and school spirit wherever he goes. Whether he's hyping up the crowd at athletic events or making appearances at campus celebrations, Wolfie's personality and dance moves make him a fan favorite for students, alumni, and families alike.
Winter West Wonderland
Each holiday season, campus becomes a winter wonderland, bringing the community together to celebrate the season. Winter West Wonderland features beautiful, illuminated sculptures created by students, live music, theatrical performances, and fun activities like DIY crafts and cookie decorating. With special photo opportunities with Santa Claus and Winter Wolfie, it's a festive tradition that's enjoyed by attendees of all ages.
Wolf Experience
Orientation, Convocation, and Weeks of Welcome
The Wolf Experience kicks off a student's journey at UWG, beginning with New Student Orientation. It's a chance to meet future classmates, explore campus, and take care of key enrollment steps. Convocation follows as the official welcome right before fall classes start, with new students introduced to university leaders and their peers, laying the foundation for a successful academic journey. The excitement continues with Weeks of Welcome, a series of events and activities designed to help students get involved, find their community, and truly become part of the Pack.
"Forever West" & "Brave Like a Wolf"
"Forever West," the official slogan of the UWG Alumni Association, represents the enduring pride, loyalty, and spirit shared by UWG alumni across generations. Complementing this is "Brave Like a Wolf," a motto that celebrates the resilience of our graduates while honoring the evolution of UWG's official nickname from the Braves to the Wolves that took place in 2005.
Wolf Plaza
Wolf Plaza, home to the iconic 3,500-pound bronze wolf statue, was installed outside University Stadium in 2014 using rocks sourced from Stone Mountain. The towering figure at the plaza's center – commissioned by longtime UWG supporters Bob and Tish Stone and their family – measures 7.5 feet high and 9.5 feet long and was designed and produced by a student and faculty member, embodying the university's strength, spirit, and pride.
WOLFStock
Hosted annually by WOLF Radio, WOLFstock is a free, high-energy event open to everyone. Featuring live performances from local UWG talent and artists from the Atlanta area, WOLFstock has offered an evening filled with music, food, games, and fun for more than 15 years.
SafeTreat
Every fall, UWG transforms into a festive, family-friendly destination with SafeTreat, an annual Halloween celebration that brings hundreds of community members to campus. Children are invited to dress up and enjoy an evening of trick-or-treating in a safe, welcoming environment. Student organizations and campus departments host themed tables, games, activities, and – of course – plenty of candy. Leading up to the event, art students participate in "Carve on the Quad," creating intricately carved and decorated pumpkins that are displayed during SafeTreat.
UWG Alma Mater
Our wise Alma Mater beckons to the Red and Blue.
Though you be in learning founded, youthful yet you be,
While thus guided by tradition yet you still breathe free.
Dear West Georgia, Dear West Georgia, standing strong and true,
Our wise Alma Mater beckons to the Red and the Blue.