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jillianhough

Strongly Rooted and Still Growing

Updated: Nov 21

By Talina Sepulveda


In the past 100 years, Graceland has made great strides towards diversity and equality. Our student body includes so many unique individuals from all over the world, coming from all kinds of religious backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities. We have so many clubs and organizations that fit your interests.


If there is one thing Graceland is known for it is our school spirit and sense of community. There will always be a place for you here at Graceland no matter where you come from.


First Generation student Breeanna Greer class of 2026 says, “On one hand I do not feel as I have a sense of place because of how sport-oriented the school is, On the other hand, the housing system helps me to feel connected to others while creating a lasting connection with the other girls on the hall. My experience at Graceland has helped me become more social and exposed me to diverse cultures. The Trio program has been invaluable as a first-generation student, providing resources that set me up for a more confident and fulfilled future. I have realized there’s a whole world to explore, and I am capable of much more than I initially thought.”


Graceland has over 50 clubs, ranging from the Lettuce Club to Enactus, to the Pottery Club, to Campus Ministries. With such a diverse student body a wide variety of clubs seems fitting. That wasn’t always the case though, in 1925 Graceland had about 16 different clubs and organizations. One that stood out is The Royal 13.


The Royal 13 was an organization started in 1914, made up of men who represented other clubs and organizations, sort of like our GSG system.


“The effort of the organization has been to gather- a somewhat cosmopolitan group of men- and its purpose is to promote good fellowship both in and out. of school life, as well as the physical, moral, and mental development of its member,” quoted President Rollin White in the 1925 Acacia.


Even though there was a lack of general diversity, Graceland was always a place that prompted community and fellowship. A huge part of campus life today is our House system. Our houses allow us to connect and build lasting connections with those just down the hall. Back then Graceland didn’t have a house system they had “societies” Those societies were made of both men and women. Although there wasn’t a house system specifically, the dorms were a common place for everyone to hang out and have fun. At that time, we had 3 dorm buildings, Patroness an all-girls dorm, Walker which was an all men’s dorm, and now this is a fun one, Bide-A-Wee a combination of women's dorms and classrooms.


The roots of Graceland planted here more than 150 years ago are stronger than ever and growing daily. The progress we've fostered as a community is astounding. So many students from all backgrounds are allowed opportunities and experiences they would not have received anywhere else.


Senior Emariye Louden had this to say about Graceland, “Graceland stands out as a small college, fostering close relationships with staff and peers. Many staff members have personal ties to the school, creating a welcoming atmosphere. As I envision my future company, I want to cultivate a similar environment—balancing professionalism with a positive culture that people want to be part of.”


Pictured is the Higdon Administration Building photographed in 1925, photographer unknown.

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