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The 21 Society is a University of Virginia-based secret society founded in 1999.

Founding and Purpose

The society's foundation and goals were announced on the June 21, 1999 in the University of Virginia's student newspaper, The Cavalier Daily. The following text accompanied that announcement:

<blockquote>
We are pleased to announce the formation of a new secret society at the University of Virginia, The 21 Society. Recognizing the need to unify the politically active students of the University, The 21 Society is hereby founded on the 21st day of June, 1999.
<br />
The purpose of the Society is to lead the students of the University as they tackle the tough issues that face U.Va. at the dawn of the 21st century. By increasing student and administration awareness of the concerns of some of the more active students, the 21's will help steer our great University in the right direction at this critical point in our history.
<br />
The 21's will be very active this year in promoting student self-governance and the preservation of Mr. Jefferson's ideals. The 21 Society believes in the community of trust, the autonomy of the student judicial system, and the fostering of activism among concerned members of the University community.
<br />
The widely publicized events of the last 21 months have posed a direct challenge to student self-governance. At a time when the University community is expanding and changing, it becomes more important than ever to preserve those characteristics that make the University unique.
<br />
In this time of crisis, the 21's hereby are dedicated to bridging the gaps between the students of the University of Virginia and ensuring that student self-governance is not lost as we move into the new millennium.
<br />
The 21 Society (1)
</blockquote>

Activities

The following are examples of the philanthropic activities carried out by The 21 Society:

During the exam period each semester, the society hires a magician to entertain studying undergraduates in the library and also provides milk and cookies. (2)

Every Spring, the society selects 21 members of the graduating class and recognizes them for their otherwise unseen contributions to the University community.

External Links

(1) The Cavalier Daily - July 8, 1999<br/>
(2) University of Virginia News