Cali VanderPlaats (Beta Tau- Indiana), left, and Ellie Folz (Beta Tau-Indiana), right, during the qualifications race for the Little 500 in 2025.
LITTLE 500 For cyclists and spectators alike, the Little 500 is one of IU’s most iconic traditions. As the largest collegiate bike race in the country, it serves as a weeklong celebration of campus spirit. First held in 1951, it brings together students, alumni and the Bloomington community in late April for high-energy women's and men's races and a week of celebrations at IU, raising money for student scholarships.
Discover Bloomington Indiana University (IU) in Bloomington is the flagship and largest of the university’s nine campuses. While the university serves as the heart of the town, Bloomington stands out in its own right, with a thriving arts scene, diverse dining and signature historic limestone architecture. It’s a place our Beta Tau sisters are proud to call home. Here’s a look at the spots and traditions that define their college experience.
IU BASICS If you’re heading to an IU game or campus-wide event, be sure to don the school colors: cream and crimson. Students, faculty, staff, family and friends wear them with pride, and if we’re being honest, it’s a flattering combination on just about everyone. School spirit runs deep across campus, so much so that in August 2025, Hoosier the Bison, a treasured school symbol, returned after a 60-year hiatus.
THE ARBORETUM A cornerstone of IU, the Arboretum is an 11-acre outdoor space featuring trees and plants both native and exotic. On warmer days, it fills with students sunbathing, playing Frisbee and studying under the open sky. In 2020, the Metz Grand Carillon, a 128-foot-tall tower and musical instrument with 65 bells, was completed. Its chimes carry throughout the Arboretum and across campus.
GOOD EATS You don’t have to go far to
experience Bloomington’s diverse flavors. On-campus dining includes King’s Hawaiian, BlenzBowls for acai and smoothies, Sugar & Spice Bakery and The Globe, which features international cuisine from local restaurants and food trucks and more. Just beyond campus, even more local favorites are a short walk or drive away.
CLOSEST ALUMNAE COMMUNITY: Indianapolis Alumnae Chapter Looking to reconnect or get involved? Email Alumnae Community President Katie Mackin Fischer (Iota Iota-George Washington) at ktfischer@gmail.com.
38
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software