If you have walked across Samford’s campus recently, you may have noticed tiny, brightly painted birdhouses tucked into the trees. What began as a simple bonding activity between two Chi Omega members has grown into an annual tradition that brings creativity and connection to campus.

According to Lolly Simpson, a junior architecture major and Chi Omega’s new member educator, the tradition began during her freshman year when she and an older member painted small wooden birdhouses together. “I thought it was such a cute idea, and it was such a fun way for us to get to talk and get to know each other,” Simpson said. After they finished, they placed the houses in nearby trees, where they quickly caught the attention of people walking by.

The chapter introduced the idea to one of its early-semester bonding events the following year. During a craft night at the Chi Omega house, new members painted their own miniature birdhouses — each one hand-painted with unique and bright designs — and placed them in trees across campus. The tradition has continued annually, with each new pledge class adding its own. 

Simpson said the activity has become a meaningful moment of welcome for new members. “It’s special to our chapter because it’s something we look forward to each year, and it’s such a fun thing to share with the newest pledge class,” she said. Members also enjoy spotting the small houses later in the semester as they walk across campus.

 It’s also a quiet gift to the Samford community. The small houses also add a bit of character to campus, and students often pause when they spot one tucked in a tree—just a quick moment of curiosity and a reminder to look up as they move between classes.

“It’s a unique way to leave our mark and share what we have been up to as a chapter,” Simpson said.