New tradition unlocked

Finalists for the 2025 George Wharton Pepper Prize attended the annual Cord and Sword Ceremony, a new spring tradition that includes the Marquis de Lafayette’s sword—one of the College’s most prized artifacts. The event began with a brief acknowledgment of Ana Ramirez Luhrs, co-director of Special Collections and College Archives. Then, each finalist was called alphabetically to receive their cord and hold the sword. “The colors of the cords—antique gold and white—represent the Pepper Prize winner and the cohort, and the sword—seen as a revolutionary symbol— represents each individual’s significant contributions to the College community,” shared Tim Cox, dean of advising and co-curricular programs. “Finalists bond through a shared experience and recognize each individual as someone who embodies the Lafayette ideal.”