In 1944, at the height of World War II, the student body at the University Virginia involved itself in many club and extracurricular activities. Since the entire nation sacrificed money and supplies for the war, university students also hosted speakers, organized charity events, and held dances. These events served as a remainder that even during a World War, Wahoos still knew how to have fun .
That year, numerous public speakers came to UVA to share of their may talents and knowledge. Among them was Dr. Kenneth C.D. Hickman ... one of the nation's most outstanding scientists ... in chemistry. Sponsored by the Virginia chapter of Sigma Xi, Dr. Hickman spoke on Low Pressure Distillation and Products of Vitamins on February 9, at 8:00 p.m. in Maury Hall. Sigma Xi, the honorary scientific society, invited Dr. Hickman to UVA for ... the sole purpose of stimulating research ... in some science among the student body. Another interesting guest spoke on Founder's Day in 1944. Dr. Dumas Malone delivered the ... Founder's Day address, celebrating the two hundred and first anniversary of Jefferson's birth. He spoke on April 13, at 7:30 in Maury Hall. Dr.. Malone was a former Professor of History at the University and was currently writing his own biography of Thomas Jefferson. Unfortunately for the students, the century old tradition of suspending classes was not observed that year. Although the importance of vitamins may have not been the most interesting topic for college students, the University nevertheless encouraged speakers to come to UVA because it helped students take their minds off the ever present war that was occurring. The University wanted the students to be aware of the war, but at the same time, they wanted the atmosphere of the school to be one of learning and achievement.
Although not many clubs were established in UVA at that time, fraternities and other institutions played a vital role in the students extracurricular life. Not only did fraternities offer parties and fun, but they were also involved in their school and community. For example Omicron Delta Kappa organized blood drives and other charity events. One particular blood drive was held on Tuesday, March 28. Aiding in the blood drive were N.R.O.T.C. battalion officers and members of the V-12 units. Students were to make an appointment for their blood donations which required 30 to 40 minutes at a time. Another charity event was headed by COLLEGE TOPICS editor Bill Deekens. In conjunction with the residents of Charlottesville, the University and the city launched their "March of Dimes" campaign to fight child birth defects. Donations were accepted from January 15 until January 30, President Roosevelt's birthday. Deekens organized a committee that placed contribution boxes on the Lawn, dormitories, boarding houses, and most public libraries.
Along with their strong effort to help their community, UVA students also knew how to amuse themselves. The most popular events were dances. Since the University was not open to women at the time, dances offered a special chance for UVA gentlemen to invite ladies from other colleges such as Sweet Briar and Mary Washington to the University. Dances were held on very special occasions such as the beginning of a new college year.
A formal dance honoring First Year students was held on Saturday, March 11, in Madison Hall. This event was sponsored by the University Center for First Year gentlemen, but all students were invited to attend as well. Mid-winter Dances were also some of the most festive times of the year. Celebrated on January 28 & 29, Midwinter weekend featured a Navy show, boxing matches, parties, and the Rotunda dance. That year the Midwinters Ball was held in the Rotunda instead of the gymnasium as in previous years. Live music was performed by the Melody Master s own Jack Dragoo. The dance began at 9:00 p.m. and continued to midnight. Admission was $1.10 couple or stag or $0.35 for a balcony seat. The dance was completely formal and any men dressed in sports clothes were not admitted.
Even when the world was in turmoil, University of Virginia students still involved themselves in their school, and their communities. They organized events that not only provided a service, but also enriched their lives with laughter and amusement. It is not wonder that even in such trying times, gentlemen could still be found in a small school in Virginia.
By: Rosana Cosme