Welcome home, JE class of 2029!
My name is Maddy, and I’m your Tulip Princess for the upcoming academic year. As evidenced by its whimsical title, the Tulip Princess is one of many metaphorical flowers in the vibrant bouquet of JE College traditions. I’m excited to witness you all blossom in this spirited community!
The tradition of the Tulip Princess originated sometime in 2002 or 2003, in celebration of the famed tulip gardens in the JE courtyard. Although its exact origins are unclear, the inaugural Tulip Princess was crowned around that time, when students in the college bestowed the title upon the daughter of a former dean. The role continued to evolve, with successive generations of Spiders vying for the floral title, until the office was eventually disbanded in 2012. Recently, however, the tradition was revived by the Jonathan Edwards College Council. These noble efforts were spearheaded by Joanna Ruiz, a recent Yale graduate and good friend of mine. I encourage you all to read more about Joanna’s historical research into the traditions of Jonathan Edwards College!
However, the old tradition wasn’t entirely replicated. Instead, in 2022, Spiders made a few changes to modernize the role by emphasizing community over competition. After a week-long nomination process, in which all seniors are eligible, Spiders select one individual who embodies the values of the tulip: namely, dignity, grace, resiliency, internal beauty, and vibrancy. The renewed iteration of this annual Tulip Princess tradition took place when I was, like you all, a first-year student in the college. Now, as your recently-inaugurated Tulip Princess, I am looking forward to continuing to pollinate joy and unity across the college alongside you all.
Just like the revival of the Tulip Princess tradition, your first semester at Yale brings together your personal history with the present moment. You’ll go to class, stay in touch with friends from high school, and maybe miss home a little bit (or, in my case, a lot). You’ll also refresh academic routines, forge unexpected friendships, and eventually, long for your community here in Jonathan Edwards College. And ultimately, you’ll blossom.
Again – welcome home!
Love and hugs,
Maddy Corson
JE ’26.5