Baker Traditions

As one of the original residential colleges, now over 65 years old, Baker has many traditions old and new that we love to celebrate!

Baker 13

In the hallowed annals of Rice history, or Baker history more specifically, nothing stands more prominent, more distinguished, and more honorable than the tradition of Baker 13. A brief overview: the runners of Baker 13—students from all years and colleges—gather at the pits of Baker College on the 13th and 31st nights of the month (if there is no 31st, the 26th) and are treated to a rousing speech by the leader of the run.

Those who choose to partake get ready and lather themselves with shaving cream. Once everyone has prepared, they gather outside Old Wing in Baker Pits and read the six rules of The Thirteen. Why the final rule is included is a well-guarded secret, and the origins have been lost in the annals of time. Regardless, once the rules are read, the runners go forth and attack the windows of other colleges, with the pressing of a shaving cream-slathered posterior being the preferred assault; Hanszen, Wiess, and Sid Richardson fall, followed by Will Rice, Lovett, and the North Colleges—Brown, Jones, Martel, Duncan, and McMurtry.

1. Stop at all stop signs (very important)

2. Pose for all pictures.

3. Attack only if attacked.

4. Outside only; no bricks or other stuff.

5. Always keep the most important part of your body covered - YOUR FACE! (Most runners skip this rule as the shaving cream get in your eyes and stings VERY badly. If you require anonymity, please feel free to follow this rule)

6. THERE IS NO RULE NUMBER 6!

   Anyway, JOIN US! Run 13!
   
   Baker 13 was first run in 1975. Since then, the tradition has been passed down from Bakerite to Bakerite and even to exchange students who have taken the tradition with them back to their universities. For a few years in the early 1990's, there was a brief period where Bakerites lost the enthusiasm to run Baker 13 and Hanzsenites claimed 13 for themselves. During this time, they started calling their runs "Club 13." Baker quickly reclaimed their tradition. In an attempt to maintain an influence in 13, Hanzsenites started a rumor that Baker would start being charged for the clean-up after their runs and they should keep the name "Club 13," which successfully fooled most students for about 10 years.
   
   Baker 13 is an important part of Rice's public image and has marked several historic Rice events. In 2002, as a precursor to the Winter Olympics held in Salt Lake City, the Olympic torch passed through Houston and Rice University. While it passed through the Rice campus, two Baker 13ers (who remained anonymous thanks to rule #5) ran in front of it. On April 26, 2008, Baker 13 officially christened the newly opened Brochstein Pavillion, which boasted 4 walls of glass. In protest of the new Dirk's Coffee in the pavillion and in respect for the student-run Coffee House on campus, the students shouted "This is for Coffee House!" as they fully covered each wall with body prints. Baker 13 even celebrated the recent Rice Centennial with a run during the Centennial Weekend on October 13, 2012 (President Leebron got a different kind of Spectacle than he was looking for).
   
   We at Baker encourage everyone to leave their mark on Rice, and what better way to do so than with a can of shaving cream in hand and a drafty wind at your backside? So come out every 13th of the month, even if you're not planning on running, and come experience a uniquely Rice tradition in all its creamy glory.

Commons Culture

Our Commons, with its long, stately tables, is one of the most iconic spaces on campus. Housed in one of Rice’s oldest and classiest buildings, it’s a grand setting that brings Bakerites together throughout the day. Here Bakerites come together to catch up with friends, study together, and make lasting memories. During meals, the hall is packed from end to end with lively conversation, spontaneous birthday songs, and even performances and speeches. Commons also hosts many of Baker’s most cherished events throughout the year. At the far end of the room lies Outer Commons, home to our ping pong, pool, and foosball tables, along with board games, video games, and the occasional power napper. It’s a favorite hangout spot for relaxing between classes, hosting game nights, or simply enjoying time with fellow Bakerites. More than just a dining space, Commons is the core of Baker.

Spirit Fridays

Once a month, Baker kicks off the weekend with Spirit Fridays. These themed events, organized by our Spirit Committee, bring Bakerites together for food, drinks, and fun. Each one is unique, featuring on-theme games, crafts, and attractions as a chance to appreciate different parts of our community. These events are a chance to relax, connect, and enjoy all things Baker.

BakerShake

Since the 1970s, BakerShake has been the longest-running Shakespeare production in Houston, born from the determination of a few bold Bakerites who turned a dream into tradition. Each spring, Baker Commons transforms into a stage for laughter, drama, and community as students bring Shakespeare’s work to life. Although based at Baker, BakerShake attracts actors, technicians, and directors from other colleges and even faculty; a lot of off-campus Houstonians also come to watch our shows. It’s safe to say we’re pretty well known. Over its history, BakerShake has had five members of the Royal Shakespeare Company travel to Houston from England to direct a performance! Not only does BakerShake put on lively, intimate, and fun performances, we’re pretty high-class too.