Four students dressed for Flower Sunday stand and speak to each other

Flowering friendships

Image credit: Joel Haskell

Students enjoy bouquets, music and speakers during Flower Sunday, Wellesley’s oldest tradition.

Author  Joel Haskell
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On September 15, students gathered at Houghton Chapel for Flower Sunday—the oldest tradition at Wellesley. Hosted by the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life, the first-year “littles” are paired with “bigs” from the older classes, who bring them bouquets of flowers or small gifts. Then they attend Flower Sunday festivities together, which include performances by the Wellesley choir, speakers, and a blessing. Photographer Joel Haskell captured images from the 2024 celebration.

President Paula Johnson poses for a selfie with two students.
President Paula A. Johnson poses for a photo with students ahead of the Flower Sunday ceremony.
Two students stand together, holding flowers and laughing.
Yanvalou drummers lead the procession into the chapel.
Yanvalou members lead the procession into the chapel.
Students walk up the steps to the chapel.
Students walk the stairs to the chapel, where they received flowers before entering.
A grid of three images showing Provost Courtney Coile, Dean Sheilah Horton and, Jackie Marquez, Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life
Provost Courtney Coile (top left) and Dean Sheilah Horton (right) hand out flowers to students at the chapel entrance. Dean of Religious and Spiritual Life Jackie Marquez (bottom left) speaks to the community.
Katelynn Crespo, Madeline Chang and Chantal Zuzi, each pictured speaking at the lectern
Katelynn Crespo ’26, Madeline Chang ’26 and Chantal Zuzi ’25 were the Flower Sunday student speakers.
Students hug and greet each other while seated in the chapel
A wide shot of the chapel with students seated and the choir performing.
The Wellesley choir performs during Flower Sunday.