Charter Day

What is Charter Day?
First known as Founder's Day, think "Happy Birthday William & Mary."
Full Schedule of Events
Special events & festivities begin Friday, February 6.
Watch the Ceremony
Livestream begins Friday, February 6 at 3:30 p.m.
Clear Bag Policy
Guests are asked to familiarize themselves with Kaplan Arena policies.
Student Green & Gold Bash
Vote for the Royal Court, then celebrate with live music, food & giveaways.
Charter Day News
Charter Day 2026: Ken Burns
At William & Mary’s 2026 Charter Day, acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns reflects on the power of authentic history, shared memory and the responsibility we all carry to shape the future.
Charter Day 2026: Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger
At William & Mary’s 2026 Charter Day, Governor Abigail Spanberger reflected on Virginia’s history, civic leadership and the power of engaged citizens.
William & Mary students meet with America’s storyteller
World-renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns visits for Charter Day.
Four university presidents reflect on leadership
W&M President Katherine A. Rowe moderated a panel discussion among W&M Chancellor Robert M. Gates, W. Taylor Reveley III and W. Taylor Reveley IV.
Burns, Spanberger help launch W&M’s Year of Civic Leadership
Ken Burns and Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger spoke at William & Mary's 2026 Charter Day ceremony.