Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Fall for new colorful traditions: UTSA monument

UTSA will welcome a new tradition to campus this fall: the Lights at the Monuments. Passersby who enter UTSA Main Campus through John Peace Boulevard and have grown accustomed to the marker that welcomes them will now be welcomed in a whole new light.

Spectacular lights of varying color schemes will recognize accomplishments important to the university. Different color schemes will commemorate different types of university achievement.

Academic achievements such as commencement, an academic program’s #1 ranking or a step towards Tier One status will be indicated with blue base lights and a white translucent tower. Orange lights (with blue light accents) will mark athletic accomplishments and fluctuate depending on the achievement.

The color schemes for solemn occasions will be recognized with a “Candle” lighting of the monument – a soft white base and brightening light on a translucent tower.

Special occasions are given their own color schemes. During Fiesta, the monument will be lit in hues of orange, blue, green, pink, purple and yellow. Homecoming will be celebrated by an orange and blue color scheme. A red, white and blue translucent box will serve as the color scheme during Military Appreciation week.

The Lights at the Monuments was spearheaded through the efforts of several student organizations – SGA, Rowdy Crew and Honors Alliance – and was managed by UTSA lead electrician Matt May.

David Oliver, assistant vice president of facilities and a facilitator for the new project, had a specific goal in mind when the project began.

“The inspiration and hope was to create a unique and welcoming gateway to the campus, a place that creates a statement for our university,” Oliver said. “Dr. Romo’s commitment to promoting school spirit and creating school traditions was vital to making this project happen.”

Senior biology major Tabbi Austin believes the initiative, equipped with a full-spectrum LED display, will foster campus community.

“I think the lights are a great way to reflect school spirit. It’s eye catching and adds a fun flair to the campus. I think both the students and the community love the new tradition,” Austin said.

The lights may not stop at the university entrance, though.

“LED lighting projects are also being considered at the UC Tower, DTC/ITC, and at the new Ximenez Campus entry,” Oliver said.

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