Point Park Traditions
Over its nearly 100-year history, Point Park University has developed a set of traditions unlike any other school. Being in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh shapes the sorts of activities that bring our community together. Read on to learn about the distinctive places, events and objects that represent the Point Park experience.
Annual Events
Pioneer Experience Pirates Game
As part of first-year orientation, known as Pioneer Experience, the first-year class walks over to PNC Park to see the Pittsburgh Pirates compete. Regardless of how the team plays, the event is always a winner.
Welcome Week Monte Carlo Night
Welcome Week, the first week of classes, features many fun social events. One of the most popular is Monte Carlo night, which features casino-style games, iconic t-shirts and big prizes.
Pioneer Pause
Started in 2022, this newer tradition gives students, faculty and staff a day to "pause" from the busyness of the fall semester and engage in activities that promote their physical and mental well-being. Activities include yoga classes, crafting opportunities, therapy animals and chair massages.
CAB Bingo
Every month, the Campus Activities Board hosts Bingo night, a hugely popular event that draws students for both the high-energy atmosphere and amazing prizes.
St. Patrick's Day Breakfast
Campus Activities Board and the Office of Student Conduct team up to host a large breakfast in Lawrence Hall on the morning of the St. Patrick's Day parade, which comes through the heart of campus on the Boulevard of the Allies.
Distinctive Campus Spaces and Objects
The Skybridge
Constructed in 1968, the Skybridge connects Lawrence and Academic Halls over Wood Street, saving students, faculty and staff from needing to cross traffic or go outside in cold or rainy (Hello, Pittsburgh!) weather.
The Vault
University Center, which houses the Point Park library, was once a bank, and it still bears some unique characteristics that pay homage to its roots, such as marble columns, a large gold clock and the vault. When students' eyelids get too heavy as they pore over their textbooks, they head to the beanbags of the vault for a refreshing nap.
The Red Bins
Given Point Park's Downtown location, parking spaces are limited, so these red bins are the best way to transport things around campus. You'll see them at move-in, move-out and lots of times in between.
Village Park
Village Park is where the Point Park community gathers when the weather is nice. On a sunny day, the tables and chairs in this city park on the corner of Boulevard of the Allies are packed with people eating, visiting and studying. It's also the location of annual events such as Spring Fling and Pioneer Community Day. Village Park features a waterfall that's a popular spot for taking photos.
"The Walk Sign is on to Cross Boulevard of the Allies"
Everyone on campus is familiar with the robotic female voice that declares, "The walk sign is on to cross Boulevard of the Allies." It's just part of the city-campus experience.
The Shuffler
Legend has it that the campus is haunted by a friendly ghost named "The Shuffler." Recently, two paranormal YouTubers came to campus and tried to find evidence themselves.