Courtesy WUSTL Archives

When many students left to serve the government as soldiers, sailors and nurses during World War II, several campus activities were curtailed, particularly student participation in Greek life and athletics. In 1943, Eliot Review discontinued publication; Thurtene Carnival and Spring Formals were not held; and the Student Senate was disbanded. After the war, Chancellor Arthur Holly Compton made the decision that academics were the primary focus of the growing University. Athletics withdrew from the Missouri Valley Conference, and the University adopted a new athletic policy that prohibited the awarding of scholarships on the basis of athletic ability alone. Activities returned in full force in the 1950s, giving new energy to pre-professional organizations, Greek life and athletics. The Bearskin Follies (above, 1960), which began during this revitalization period, were campus dramatic favorites. Sororities and fraternities performed original skits in a musical revue that drew crowds each spring.

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Washington University is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2003-04.

Special programs and announcements will be made throughout the yearlong observance.