History
About Will Rice College
The
College of Gods and Goddesses
If you take a little wander through South Campus, you’ll come across a college that shines like the pyre of a thousand phoenixes, illuminated by myth, power, and value. Congratulations, you are now a part of the rust and gold glory that is Will Rice College, the second college founded at Rice University! You may first notice that we have a dazzling outdoor quad flanked on three sides by our spectacular New Dorm, our stunningly historic Old Dorm, and the coziest commons on campus. It is inside, though, that you will truly get to experience the welcoming and warm spirit of your new Will Rice family.
Originally built in 1912, Old Dorm (known then as South Hall) was the first residential building on campus. Will Rice College was founded in 1957 and named after William Marsh Rice Junior, the nephew of Rice’s founder. Beginning as a college of about 200 members, Will Rice was given the motto “The College of Individuals” by James Street Fulton. In 1977, Will Rice became a co-ed college and adopted the name of “The College of Gods and Goddesses” instead. It was during this time that Will Rice developed its victorious culture. From 1960-1968, Will Rice dominated Songfest, the university’s prestigious annual chorale competition, to the point that the university decided to cancel the competition due to Will Rice’s endless winning streak. Since then, Will Rice has claimed victory in freshman flag football, the Presidents’ Cup Tournament, and most famously, Beer Bike!
Started in 1957, Beer Bike is an annual competitive bike race hosted by Rice in the spring. Starting from the Monday of Beer Bike Week, Will Ricers passionately fill water balloons, plan jacks (pranks) against other colleges, and practice chugging and biking until the day of the race. Will Rice has taken pride in winning countless Beer Bike races and being the only college to sweep the alumni, women’s, and men’s races not just once, but 5 times!
However, Will Rice isn’t all about competition. While winning is fun, Will Rice has always been about doing things, whether racing or studying, together. As one of the oldest colleges, our culture is rooted in tradition, with a phoenix spirit that is open to rebirth and change. Over time, Will Rice has introduced new traditions to its culture such as Whale Day, KITQs, and Phinest Phoenix. Along with its formal traditions, Will Rice has also developed more laid-back rituals such as late night studying in the commons, playing Smash in the game room, watching cheesy reality TV with the RAs, and having daily lunch announcements.
Will Ricers take initiative. Our student government, affectionately nicknamed EC (Executive Council), meets weekly in the Magister’s House to discuss what’s going on at Will Rice. Everyone, regardless of elected position, is encouraged to attend to hear the latest on Will Rice, make a proposal for a grilled cheese party, or even just come for the friends! Everyone is encouraged to get involved, and there truly is something for everyone. Each matriculating class of Will Ricers shapes our college’s trajectory for the better, and we cannot wait to see what new values, traditions, and perspectives you’ll bring to the table. Like the mythical phoenix that serves as the symbol of the college, Will Rice rises above the others, burning with a bright fire and passion. We take pride in our history and work every day as a college to grow together, becoming the best versions of ourselves with each new reincarnation.