University Friars records

In 1910, a few seniors who were prominent on campus formally founded the Society of Friars. The organization has existed since that time, with varying periods of strength or inactivity, and shrouded in some mystery and secrecy, as “an upper-class society in good fellowship.”

Each spring, a few junior students are tapped to fill out the ranks of campus Friars for fall. Occasionally a faculty member is tapped – one who is respected and liked as a teacher and who has also taken a special interest in students and student affairs. No requirements for membership have ever been published, but it has been observed, “that neither a high scholarship record nor high student office alone seem(s) to qualify, but recognition of service and leadership, past and potential.”

The names of members are inscribed each year on heavy metal scrolls or shields, which, according to Friars’ custom, are present whenever Friars gather. Through the years, the society has observed its traditional ceremonies during Homecoming and during Junior (or Spring Parents’) Weekend. During these ceremonies, black-hooded, black-robed figures carrying the engraved shields are observed marching and tapping new members and holding their banquets.

Beginning in 1942, when war had scattered the membership across the length and breadth of the earth’s continents, a Friar began the tradition of a periodic Friar newsletter sent to all known Friars overseas and at home. In this newsletter Friars provide news of each other. A section headed “Campus News” brings Friars news of the university, and a column “From the Actives” describes the activities of campus Friars.

In the years since World War II, Friars on campus have been involved in campus politics, in getting out the vote in general elections where matters concerning higher education are presented to voters, and in raising funds for projects such as the Erb Memorial Union. Friars who graduate from the University of Oregon have gone on to distinguish themselves in government, public service, and the professions.

In the late 1960s student interest in campus organizations dwindled in a period of time when the Vietnam War was occupying the energies of many campuses. The Friars Society fell into decline, and for a period of time in the late ‘60s and ‘70s no new campus Friars were tapped.

In 1980, the Friars Society revitalized. The black robes and brass shields were seen once again as active Friars again marched on campus, tapping new members, volunteering for activities important to the quality of the University of Oregon, and linking campus Friars with Friars who have graduated.

[Source: http://uodos.uoregon.edu/SupportandEducation/UniversityFriars/HistoryofFriars/tabid/226/Default.aspx]