The annual Bricks to Stone ceremonial walk marks a major transition for first-year students: moving from the bricks of East Campus to the stones of West Campus. The tradition began with this year’s graduating class of 2026, and last Friday, the class of 2029 carried on the tradition. Students walked to the next chapter of their Duke lives in a symbolic procession from the Karsh Alumni and Visitors Center to Abele Quad on West Campus.
“Duke University is not just about bricks or stones,“ said Duke University President Price. “The beauty and strength in this place is clearly about people.”
Experience the celebration — which included games, dancing and snacks — with these photos and video.
The march is a key component of QuadEx, a university initiative to integrate students’ academic and residential worlds.
First-year students show their excitement to be moving west.
A line dance is part of the events.
Games were on hand along Chapel Drive.
Students enjoy a popcorn break.
A selfie with President Vincent Price in front of the Chapel on West Campus