Meet Me At The Bearcat: Seniors Declare New Landmark Gift For UC s Uptown West Campus

The University of Cincinnati senior class officers announced plans for a Bearcat sculpture for campus as their departing gift to the university. Senior Class President Drew McKenzie says the bearcat could eventually be located in UC’s new Varsity Village. McKenzie says the senior class officers are working with the Office of the University Architect and the campus art selection committee to select an artist for the project.

The UC senior class officers – a panel of six students – are graduating seniors and representatives of Student Government who are charged with raising funds for the senior class gift to the university. McKenzie says the idea for a statue of the UC bearcat mascot gained momentum because there is presently no bearcat campus landmark. “The bearcat continues to have a strong association with the university, and it’s time for that association to be recognized by students,” said McKenzie. “Also, it’s relatively common at other universities to have a sculpture tribute to their mascot.”

McKenzie adds that a campus symbol of bearcat pride reflects the goals of the UC|21 Strategic Plan to develop an exciting, thriving campus where the university community and the community at large feel they belong and where they want to spend time.

The senior class is now raising funds to pay for the sculpture. Details on how to contribute can be found on the Senior Class Web site at: http://www.uc.edu/seniorclass/

UC’s All-University Commencement will be held on June 10.