and wrestling; and co-ed sports include competitive cheerleading, competitive dance, and outdoor life sports.
On July 24, 2023, the school announced it would join the Heart of America Athletic Conference in 2024 as an associate member for football. It will become a full member of the Heart of America in 2025.
== Alumni and traditions ==
William Woods has more than 25,000 alumni. There are many traditions associated with the school, including the "Ivy Chain." The Ivy Ceremony marks the start of the students' college life. When they graduate, the ivy will be cut during another ceremony, held at commencement, symbolizing separation from college and the beginning of a new life. The tradition is believed to have begun more than a hundred years ago when the Class of 1899 planted ivy on the campus during a special graduation ceremony.
=== Notable alumni ===
Luann Ridgeway, member of the Missouri State Senate
Helen Stephens, Olympic gold medalist
Kuo Su-Chun, former legislator of the Legislative Yuan and National …
