One hundred fifty students participated in Daze of Payne activities at Howard Payne University last week. The traditions week included a bowling night at Academy Lanes, a scavenger hunt around Brownwood, a talent show and activities at the home football game on Saturday.

New students known as “little” brothers and sisters partnered with upperclassmen “big” brothers and sisters to the week to learn about the traditions of the university. Each participating “little” wore a beanie for the week, a tradition that dates back to 1920.

Senior Cara Brewer commented that, “being a ‘big’ provided the priceless opportunity to be a party of passing on the traditions that make HPU what it is – a place where students take the time to invest in one another and develop a sense of family.”

For the last quarter of the football game the “littles” were directed down to the end zone and performed a variety of tasks for their “bigs,” including frying like bacon, mini haha’s, air raids, button ups, and many other HPU traditions.

“Daze of Payne was a great way to connect with upperclassmen,” said freshman Brittany Tarver. “I cannot wait to be a “big” next year!”

Family Weekend was also held on Friday and Saturday during Daze of Payne. More than 100 family members participated in activities on campus as they visited current students.

Photos by Josh Williams

Above – Human pyramid – A human pyramid built by the “little brothers” of Daze of Payne week.

Alma Mater – Students sang the alma mater at the end of the football game on Saturday, marking the end of Daze of Payne week.

Mini-hahas – A line of students passing on “mini-haha’s.