Tradition Keeper

The first and oftentimes favorite tradition students complete is walking under the Carter Carillon. Before officially becoming a Thunderbird, new students walk from the America First Event Center to the Upper Quad during Freshmen Orientation, where they pass underneath the Carter Carillon. This is the official welcome to new students as they are surrounded by cheering faculty, staff, students, alumni and administration. New students walk east, which symbolizes the sunrise or start of a new chapter. They are asked not to walk beneath the tower again until graduation day. During the University Commencement Ceremony, graduating students walk from the Upper Quad, pass through the Carter Carillon, down to the America First Event Center for commencement. This walk is also significant since students walk west under the Carter Carillon to signify the sunset or closing of a chapter. Rumor has it that if you pass under the bell tower again before you graduate, beware of ramifications (i.e. you won’t pass your exam or you will get tackled by a linebacker).  Regardless of the consequences (or lack thereof), the ground under the Carter Carillon is sacred, where only SUU Alumni should pass underneath.

Here at SUU, wearing red every Friday shows our pride and passion for the University. It is our visual identity. It’s more than school colors and face paint. Red defines us and unites us to live and celebrate together. Wearing red on Friday is more than a tradition, it is who we are. We choose red, we choose pride, we choose Southern Utah University. We Wear Red. 

The ghost of Virginia Loomis is the University’s most famous ghost story. Legend states that Virginia has haunted the Old Main building on campus since it was built in 1898. Virginia was tragically murdered in a quarry just east of Cedar City by her boyfriend who fled town. Virginia’s body was later found draped over a rock covered by her own blood. Coincidentally, that same rock was made into some of the bricks that built Old Main, which according to folklore caused her spirit to be tied to the building forever. Virginia is said to roam the top floor of Old Main and in 1948 became an alleged arsonist when Old Main burnt to the ground in 1948, 50 years after her brutal murder. Students now are often found gathering outside the steps of Old Main at midnight to catch a glimpse of Virginia in action.

Where else can you see approximately 1,000 head of sheep being the crowning entry of a parade? Only in Cedar City where every fall it hosts the historic sheep parade. In 1890, Cedar City cattlemen purchased a herd of sheep from Colorado. This parade signifies the movement of the sheep when the animals are herded from Cedar Mountain pastures down Cedar City’s Main Street, providing an exciting glimpse of the Old West and its livestock heritage to spectators along the route. The sheep parade, which also includes horses, wagons, antique tractors, historic and modern sheep camps, is a highlight event and probably one of the most unique parades in the country.

A source of pride for any T-Bird is the SUU fight song. At every athletic event, the fight song is a crucial part of hyping up the crowd and making sure every T-Bird is heard loud and proud. At football games, students and fans alike stand and sing the fight song after every touchdown. During basketball games, the song is sung by all SUU fans as we welcome the team back on the court after halftime. You will also hear the song played from the bell tower prior to the Commencement processional and other important events on campus. Regardless when the song is played, you can’t help but swell with school pride and passion for our university. Go, Go, Go...Fight, Fight, Fight...Win T-Birds!

Casino Night is the perfect excuse to dress up and test your gambling skills without driving to Vegas or losing your rent money. With a new theme each time, this semi-annual event provides a variety of casino favorites, such as Blackjack, Texas Hold’em, Roulette and Craps. Each winner at Casino Night receives tickets that they can enter into a raffle to win prizes of all kinds. This event also offers refreshments, pictures and a classy, fun time. Whether you are feeling lucky or not, you’ll beat the odds at this fun event.

Paint the Town Red is an annual celebration at the beginning of every fall semester to wrap up Welcome Week, aka, the first week of school. During this event clubs, vendors, food trucks, bands and so much more assemble together to welcome the new year and kick off all the memories that will be made at SUU. This is the perfect opportunity to sign up for clubs with 180 plus clubs representing, you can find the club that you’re passionate about while finding friends with similar interests. And it literally is painting the town red as anyone who attends can help paint the massive mural that represents that the Thunderbirds are back in town.

One of the most anticipated events of Homecoming week, and the entire year, is Forever Red. One of the newer traditions at SUU, it originated in 2011 and continues to offer the perfect opportunity for alumni, students, and community members to gather in celebration. Held on the Upper Quad, you are guaranteed to find live music, food, scholarship drawings, and so much more. The culminating portion of the night is the thrilling firework display that you won’t want to miss. This event is free to all and brings everyone together for a night of dancing, fun and T-Bird pride.

Bread and Soup Night is a monthly “food” raiser for SUU’s HOPE Pantry. This inexpensive event provides all-you-can-eat soup, bread and dessert, plus live entertainment, for only $1 with a non-perishable food donation (or $3 without). While the primary goal of the event is to generate food donations and raise awareness of student food insecurity, these monthly meals also provide a unique opportunity for all to enjoy a good meal and entertainment in a friendly atmosphere all within your small student budget. With yummy food and great entertainment, you can’t go wrong with this worthwhile event.

Mindy Benson was appointed as the first vice president for Alumni and Community Relations in 2014, and now she’s the first female to serve in the presidential role for the institution. President Benson has excelled at SUU advancing through a variety of positions, including director of Student Life and Leadership and executive director of Alumni Relations. If you spot President Benson at an event or walking around campus, don’t be shy and say hi!

This event kicks off the last day of Homecoming week. Sponsored by SUU Emeriti (retired SUU faculty and staff) along with Alumni & Student Alumni Association, this event takes place prior to the highly anticipated homecoming parade. Stop by and watch the Emeriti flip approximately 1,000 pancakes and enjoy a delicious breakfast, mingle with others, and acquire a great spot to watch the parade.

Known as Festival City, USA, Cedar City has many festivals going on year round. There is something for everyone, including hands-on activities and relaxing events for a night out. With events such as the Red Rock Film Festival, the Wildflower Festival, the Utah Midsummer Renaissance Faire and even the Utah UFO Festival, there are countless opportunities to meet up with friends and family and enjoy a fun festival experience.

More than seven decades since the inaugural Thunderbird Awards, the campus community looks forward to this spring event that recognizes the campus’ most outstanding T-Birds in the annual Oscar-style awards ceremony. When the event was first established in 1950, there were only four awards given out. There are now 28 different award categories that honor and recognize students, faculty, staff and community. With encouragement for everyone to nominate the exceptional among us, this formal event highlights the contributions of the hard workers here at SUU.

There’s only one place on campus where you can find Mario and Luigi, the Scooby Doo gang, zombies and Captain America all in the same room at one time that place is The Scream. This epic night is the largest Halloween event in Southern Utah and takes place in the America First Event Center and the Sharwan Smith Student Center. The Scream, formerly known as The Howl, changes themes every year, but always includes a massive dance, entertainers, spook alley and other festive activities.

The Southern Utah Museum of Art, a university-based art museum, is known for the features of artwork of regional artists as well as other artists from around the country. Not only does SUMA have great exhibits, they also put on a variety of events from Dia de los Muertos to Friday Art Walks. SUMA Sidekicks is a free membership program providing students with opportunities to earn rewards as you participate. The museum has much to offer and is free and open to the public.

The Thunderbird Gardens trailhead is for mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing and hiking. About 15 minutes to complete, this 2.6 mile round trip hike is great for the outdoor lover wanting to take advantage of the beautiful scenery southern Utah has to offer that is literally tucked on the east side of Cedar City. While hiking, check out “Thor’s Hideout,” a trail with a fun surprise at the end- a sandstone throne for our amazing mascot.

The Bristlecone Pine trail is located up the beautiful Cedar Canyon. This gorgeous short trail is full of trees and flowers, but most importantly leads to SUU’s very own Bristlecone Pine. The Bristlecone Pine is known for its remarkable ability to adjust to continually changing conditions, to thrive when conditions are favorable, and to survive and adjust when conditions are adverse. Some of these trees near us are over 5,000 years old and are possibly the oldest living things on the earth. Previous presidents felt so strongly about the message that they included a bristlecone pine in the official university seal and to compliment SUU’s motto, “Learning Lives Forever.” As a university and as individual T-Birds, we can understand that although things may not always be easy, we have been taught to survive and adapt.

Cedar City during Christmas time is a magical experience! Not only is downtown Cedar City beautiful with lights strung overhead from building to building in the heart of town, but many locals have put time and passion into the lights on their homes to provide festive, beautiful holiday views that will undoubtedly spark your “tis the season” spirit. So grab some friends and some hot cocoa and enjoy Cedar’s winter wonderland to celebrate the end of the semester.

The Utah Shakespeare Festival is considered one of the most prestigious theatres in the United States and has received the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, an Emmy Award, and the Utah Best of State Award and luckily is located on SUU’s campus. Fred and Barbara Adams founded the festival over 50 years ago in 1961 and has blossomed into a professional theatre that people travel all over the world to attend. The festival takes place from June until early October and offers multiple plays and musicals to enjoy. Approximately 100,000 people attend each season as it has captured the attention and hearts of many. As SUU students, you have the opportunity to purchase a student access card which allows you to watch an unlimited number of shows for a minimal cost. Free Greenshows are also available each night on the green grassy knoll in front of the outdoor Engelstad Theatre.

Each spring, the student body has the chance to vote for their representatives to advocate for their interests on campus. Elections are an integral part of democracy and provide for us an opportunity to hold our elected officials accountable. Truly every vote counts, whether in federal, state, local or SUU elections. Don’t wing it - VOTE!

As part of the football tradition, join in on the T-Bird tailgates that are filled with games, food, music and more. Prior to each football game, clubs and organizations congregate to celebrate SUU football and the game about to take place. Look and FEEL ready to cheer on the Thunderbirds, by getting your face painted!

The Sharwan Smith Student Center and statue is a part of almost every student’s lives. Whether you’re hanging out with friends in the Rotunda or just passing through to get to your next class, the statue is almost always seen. However, there is more to the story than just a statue. Sharwan Smith was born in 1970 in Provo, Utah. After graduating Viewmont High, Sharwan attended Southern Utah University where she quickly became a friend to everyone. Serving as Student Body Vice President of Activities and President of the Lambda Delta Sigma Sorority, Sharwan was loved by everyone she came in contact with. Unfortunately on May 18, 1995, Sharwan was killed in a car accident. Because of her impact on SUU and it’s students, her memory could never be forgotten. On March 11, 1997, the Sharwan Smith Student Center was dedicated in her honor. Now as students walk by, they are able to see her smiling face on the statue and high five her, just as she once did as a student at SUU.

It takes three things to become a True T-Bird: a partner, Old Sorrel and a kiss! A tradition at SUU since 1994, sharing a midnight kiss on the Friday of Homecoming with your significant other on the plaza by Old Sorrel transforms you into a True T-Bird. Students and alumni can either become a True T-Bird for the first time or renew their commitment to the tradition. Either way, don’t forget your chapstick and mints!

Southern Utah University was once just a dream. A fantasy fought by a small group of men, at the perils of their own lives. There’s no way they could have foreseen the legacy that they would leave. How their passion, drive, blood, sweat and tears, would allow generations over more than a century, to gain an education, build a future, and leave legacies of their own. Step into the miraculous story of our founding through the SUU docudrama “Back Up the Mountain.” Watch along as Neil Bladen, Principal Bennion and Old Sorrel rally the small town of miners, ranchers, and farmers to build Old Main during the storm of the century.”

The Thunder Train originated in 2008 on a student bus trip to support an away football game at Air Force. It continues to be a T-Bird fan favorite at every football game and other athletic event. Taught at Thunder U Orientation, this interactive chant is a great way to pump up the crowd and get everyone excited for the game.

The C Trail can be explored in a variety of ways, depending on the type of adventure you are seeking. The trail can be done one-way or out and back, but it is a difficult climb with 2,100 feet of elevation gain. Either way you choose to adventure, the “C” Overlook offers a panoramic view of the Cedar City valley and surrounding mountains make it well worth your time. Bordering Dixie National Forest, this trail is known for its beautiful wild flowers and scenery, but also tight switchbacks. Commonly used for hiking and mountain biking, this trail has something for everyone and offers a great workout with a beautiful view of the city.

Come spring semester, SUU celebrates the anniversary of its founding with a week-long celebration known as founders week. A student favorite event that takes place during Founders Week is Lunch on the Main. During this event, students can seek out free food from several different locations on campus while enjoying historic stories about the hard work and sacrifice that went into the establishment of the university we all call home.

SUU is known as “University of the Parks” and it’s no surprise to anyone who has visited campus. The location of the school in southern Utah offers more than 20 national parks, recreation areas and monuments. With Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Great Basin National Park and many others within a five hour drive, SUU offers many opportunities to experience what Mother Nature has to offer. With endless opportunities and the passion for the outdoors that University has, it is no wonder that SUU was awarded The Most Outdoorsy School in the nation. Whether students get involved academically, recreationally or through volunteer efforts, their opportunities are boundless at the University of the Parks.

Located outside of the Sherratt Library, Gunther the Rock gets painted numerous times throughout the year to advertise different events occurring on campus. Different clubs and organizations use this centrally located rock to announce campus happenings. Gunther is often confused with previous kissing rocks on campus. One kissing rock was in the grove of trees during the BAC & CSU times, but another kissing rock, located between the ELC and the Music building, gained notoriety during the SUSC era. Sadly this large kissing rock was removed about 10 or 12 years ago when landscaping was redesigned. Gunther may not be the kissing rocks from the past, but get to know him anyways. He is a friend to all, hard to miss and you may be able to sneak in a harmless kiss while there!

Before Thunderbirds soared, a different creature roamed this campus. 125 million years ago, Utahraptors stomped these grounds. Utahraptor’s claim to fame is that it was by far the biggest raptor ever to walk the earth; adults measured about 25 feet from head to tail and weighed in between 1,000 to 2,000 pounds, compared to 200 pounds for a more typical raptor or the 25 to 30 pound Velociraptor. The first Utahraptor was unearthed in SUU’s back yard in the Cedar Mountain Formation in 1991. Today, you can find two full-size Utahraptors that greet visitors on the south entrance of the newly redesigned Geoscience Building.

SUU has many innovative ways to learn. One of those ways is through guest lectures brought to campus. A.P.E.X (Ask. Ponder. Educate.) is SUU’s weekly lecture with speakers invited from all over the world. This series includes many different topics and scenarios, helping the campus to connect in a majority of ways. A.P.E.X events are free and open to everyone, including students, faculty, staff and community members.

A happy T-Bird is an active T-Bird! Campus Recreation is home to many different recreational activities, including the fitness center, aquatic center, intramurals, SUU Outdoors, and more. The P.E Building houses the fitness center, aquatic center, basketball and racquetball courts, an indoor track and fitness classes. Many campus rec activities are available to current students free of charge or with a very low fee. SUU Health and Wellness strives to promote health and well-being of students by promoting healthy lifestyles through evidence-based social norm approaches.

At SUU, there’s many opportunities to give back to others. To complete this tradition, do something nice for someone you don’t know. In addition to brightening his or her day, you’ll be surprised at how happy it makes YOU feel. Remember, T-Birds, every day we have the opportunity to be happy, to make a difference, to live life to the fullest and to succeed. Help spread a tradition of friendliness wherever you go.

SUU Athletics is home to football, men and women’s basketball, volleyball, golf, track and field, cross country, soccer, softball and gymnastics. With sporting events happening all year, cheering on the T-Birds has never been more fun. The homecoming football game, rival basketball games and gymnastic events are some fan favorites. So get out there and cheer them on to victory.

The Great Hall is located in the Hunter Conference Center on upper campus. This giant room houses large events on campus, such as dances, banquets, and more. This European style hall also contains SUU’s Hall of Honor, which includes portrait’s of important individuals who are a part of campus history. Nicknamed as the “Harry Potter” room by students, this room is the perfect place for a photo opp.

Whether you are an amateur weekend warrior or a semi-professional athlete, Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games opens up its fields, courts, river and pools to over 10,000 participants every summer and you can be one of them! With over 50 sports to choose from, it will be easy to find one (or three) that you can compete in or cheer on from the sidelines. Since its inception in 1986, the LHM Utah Summer Games has brought athletes from all across the western United States to compete and is a longstanding seasonal tradition for southern Utah. The Opening Ceremonies of the LHM Utah Summer Games kicks off the festivities in mid-June and not only provides a parade of athletes, live entertainment, but the best firework display in Southern Utah. So whether you compete in the games, cheer on someone else or just want to be dazzled by the fireworks, be sure to make LHM Utah Summer Games a part of your summer.

Cedar City is home to over 100 different restaurants and food options, from familiar favorites to local treasures. These delicious eateries support SUU in countless ways. Cedar City is also home to local soda and coffee shops. With so many establishments to choose from with a variety of different kinds of food, don’t get stuck in a rut always eating the same thing. Find that hidden gem and be sure to share it with us.

Homecoming Week is the perfect time to welcome back former students and for the campus to celebrate SUU. The Homecoming parade happens the Saturday morning down University Boulevard before the homecoming football game later that night. The parade has a combination of floats with different clubs and organizations around campus, as well as local businesses and organizations. Participate with a club or organization and compete for the top entry in 1) best themed float, 2) best overall float, 30 most enthusiastic, and 4) most creative float. Prize money will be awarded to the winning entries. Whether you watch from the sidewalk or have an entry in the parade, this high energy event is the perfect way to celebrate our campus and all the amazing people on it.

There once was a king who had two sons. He needed to decide which son would inherit his kingdom, so he split it in half and gave each one of his sons one half. Then after five years, he called in both halves of the kingdom for a banquet in order to see which son was the best leader and would inherit the entire kingdom. At this dinner, everyone was given very large spoons with 3 foot handles to eat the soup that was served. The citizens of the first prince’s kingdom couldn’t get a single morsel into their mouths. However, the citizens of the second kingdom were able to use the large spoons to feed the person across the table.

Because they were willing to serve each other they were all well-fed. R. Kenneth Benson, a former Director of Student Involvement, loved this story and re-created this spoon. He would use it each Spring to "Knight" the newly elected SUUSA leaders with the hope that it would encourage them to serve their fellow students. Here at SUU, we are leaders who serve. Each of us are unique and should do it in our own way. Take a photo with this spoon that can be found in Special Collections in the basement of the Sherratt Library.

The College of Performing and Visual Arts at SUU is full of gifted faculty and students. The CPVA is home to the Art and Design, Theatre Arts and Dance, Music, and Arts Administration departments. The CPVA offers many theatre performances, symphony and other music performances, and art galleries and activities as well. Free to students with a current student ID, this department is a great way to expand your mind and explore all that the arts have to offer.

Lake on the Hill is Cedar City’s man made lake behind the aquatic center. During the summer months and the beginning of fall semester, this lake is extremely popular for people of all ages. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards while enjoying the warm weather and cool water, as well as fishing or hanging out on the sand. SUU has put on “Welcome Back” week events at the Lake on the Hill, which is full of food, music, sunshine and fun.

SUU is home to many students from all over the globe. Through the Center of Diversity and International Affairs, there are many showcases to experience, such as the Polynesian Showcase, Lunar New Year, International Food Fair, the African Showcase, the SUU Pow Wow, and the Black Student Union Step Show, just to name a few. These showcases are full of history, entertainment, and culture that you don’t want to miss.

You see him, you know him, you love him. Thor is SUU’s mascot and brings the energy up in every room he enters. Thor is in attendance at every athletic event and is constantly interacting with the people around him. From fun dance moves to hyping up the crowd, Thor is loved by everyone on campus. Thor loves to hang out with others, so when you see him, don’t be afraid to pull out your phone and snap that selfie!

The Michael O. Leavitt Center for Politics and Public Service hosts Pizza and Politics every Wednesday at noon. This event discusses a certain political topic and gives students the opportunity to discuss and learn about important local, national and global issues. These discussions encourage students to share their opinions and thoughts with others, while learning about all sides of a certain issue. Everyone in attendance is rewarded with a great discussion and a new mindset, as well as pizza.

Designed for the culturally-minded and curious at heart, the self-paced walking tour will introduce you to a variety of artifacts that weave our campus together in story and metaphor. Look forward to meeting a cast of fascinating characters from the pages of Shakespeare and coming face to face with icons of local and global history as you wind your way through our meticulously manicured campus grounds. At SUU, we believe art enriches the student experience and inspires all who take the time to observe. The SUU Statue Stroll is about an hour walk around campus and you will see statues such Fred C. Adams, The Founders Monument, The Centurium, The Pioneer Monument, and many more.

Located on the hilltop just south of SUU, the Ashcroft Observatory opened in the 1970s and has focused on community learning opportunities. The observatory is open every Monday night and gives people the opportunity to see constellations or various parts of the galaxy for free. Used for schools, families, and the rest of the community, this larger than life place gives many the chance to see what’s beyond the naked eye.

Summer in Cedar wouldn’t be complete without a snow cone. Cedar City has many options for the perfect summer treat so take the time to explore and become a connoisseur of snow cones. Grab some friends and try a different snow cone spot or flavor each week. After all, nothing is better than a delicious frozen snack on a hot day.

One of the more superstitious traditions involves former SUU President Gerald R. Sherratt. SUU’s Library, named after the former president, houses a statue of Sherratt which resides in the lobby on the first floor. The tradition states if you rub the statue’s head before an important test, you will tap into the great wisdom of Gerald Sherratt and receive a good grade. Whether or not this action actually enhances the intellectual ability of the participant is still in question, but there is no denying that a true believer will find confidence and comfort from a quick pat before an exam. And honestly, what could it hurt?

You may look like a T-Bird, you may act like a T-Bird, but do you eat like a T-Bird? Take the opportunity to show your SUU pride by supporting local establishments that have named specific food after SUU. Grab a Thunderbird Bowl at China Kitchen or stop by Palette Bakery and Ice Cream for a Red Riot. Or explore around town where you will find countless other options from drinks to meals that give a nod to our favorite university.

So, how do you and your friends show your T-bird Pride? Dye your hair red on game day? Have a bonfire burning all your semester’s homework out at Three Peaks? Write a word with the football stadium chairs? Host an epic game night on Dead Friday? Chewing Big Red on test days? Or continuing your afterparty at Denny’s after a campus event? We want to know. Help us spread the T-bird Love by sharing your tradition with us!