2019/2020 Bearkat Buzz

SA M H O USTO N STATE U N IVERSIT Y’S

FA LL 2019/SPRI N G 2020

TH E D EPA RTM EN T O F ST U D EN T AC T IVI T I ES

THE BEARKAT FAMILY: A LEGACY OF GREATNESS

Bearkat Buzz

Welcome Bearkats!

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merican writer Richard Bach once said, “The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life. Rarely do members of one family grow up under the same roof.” We embrace this philosophy at Sam Houston State University as we celebrate our 140th year in higher education and as we continuously grow our Bearkat Family.

It is with intentionality and purpose that we emphasize the holistic development of the student. The university experience is intended to cultivate and develop students not only in the academic arena, but also as responsible and productive citizens entering a global society.

From the moment that an individual makes that elite choice to be a Bearkat, in any capacity, they are entering a lifetime circle of support and trust that emphasizes inclusivity, acceptance and pride in one another’s accomplishments.

Find us on... @SHSUStuAct | SHSUStuAct |

SHSUStuAct /SHSUStuAct

/shstudentactivities

Board of Regents The Texas State University System

Our intention in perpetuating this ‘family’ ideology is to form and grow a lifelong bond to an institution that is steeped in history and tradition. This bond will follow our students for their entire lifespan and always be there as a support structure, both during their education and after. We encourage students to engage, involve and connect in their campus lives, and in doing so enlarge and form those enduring family bonds. We anxiously anticipate meeting and engaging all of our students through the initiatives and areas in the Department of Student Activities. Please know we are here to support your educational pursuits and provide any assistance you might need in your journey at Sam Houston State University.

William F. Scott, Chairman..................................Nederland David Montagne, Vice Chairman......................... Beaumont Charlie Amato................................................... San Antonio Duke Austin.............................................................. Houston Garry Crain............................................................ The Hills Dr. Veronica Muzquiz Edwards........................ San Antonio Don Flores...................................................................El Paso Nicki Harle....................................................................Baird Alan L. Tinsley..................................................Madisonville Katey McCall, Student Regent................................. Orange

Eat ‘Em Up Kats!

Brian McCall, Chancellor........................................... Austin

M. Brandon Cooper Director, Department of Student Activities

President’s Cabinet Dr. Dana G. Hoyt, President Ms. Kathy Gilcrease, Chief of Staff Dr. Richard Eglsaer, Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Carlos Hernandez, Vice President for Finance and Operations Mr. Frank R. Holmes, Vice President for University Advancement Dr. Heather Thielemann, Vice President for Enrollment Management Mr. Frank Parker, Vice President for Student Affairs Mr. Mark Adams, Vice President for Information Technology Mr. Bobby Williams, Director of Athletics

Kelly Patterson, Managing Editor Rachel Valle, Copy Editor shsu.edu/studentactivities studentactivities@shsu.edu 936.294.3861 Lowman Student Center, Suite 215

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shsu.edu/studentactivities

DEPARTMENT OF STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Frank Parker Vice President for Student Affairs

M. Brandon Cooper Director for Student Activities

Brian McColpin Assistant Director for Spirit Programs

Rachel Valle Assistant Director for Program Council and Assessment

Steven Begnaud Assistant Director for Traditions/Special Events

Jordan Chang Assistant Director for the Center for Diversity and Intercultural Affairs

Edwin Cantu Program Coordinator for the Center for Diversity and Intercultural Affairs

Kelly Patterson Program Coordinator for Traditions/Special Events

Sarah Garcia Spirit Programs Coach

Meagan Balentine Assistant Spirit Programs Coach

Kari Tilley Administrative Coordinator

Breanna Provost Administrative Assistant

KATTRIBUTES: CAREER READY, COMMUNICATION, CRITICAL THINKING, ETHICS AND TEAMWORK 3

Bearkat Buzz PROGRAM COUNCIL Rachel Valle, Assistant Director Program Council is the official Sam Houston State University student programming board responsible for coordinating events for the SHSU student body. Program Council consists of a board of eight student leaders who implement mission-driven events and enrich the Bearkat experience by fostering opportunities that create engagement and a sense of community on campus. By becoming directly involved in planning and presenting these events, board members have the opportunity to develop many life skills including leadership, management, public relations, decision-making and creative thinking.

Program Council strives to bring quality programs and events to campus that complement the mission of the University and the Division of Student Affairs. The board hosts an average of sixty events annually, all with the intention of promoting valuable educational and social experiences outside the classroom, and expression through diverse and inclusive programming. Some of these events are meant to create and maintain traditions that bring the entire SHSU community closer together, such as the Miss Sam Houston Pageant and LSC Takeover. Other events are created to ensure that there’s always something fun happening on campus. PC Cinema, Bingo Night, and Thursday Thrills are just a few of the regularly scheduled programs. Regardless of the event size, each event is designed to give students a campus experience that is unique to being a Bearkat!

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SHSU Program Council @SHSU_PC |

SHSU_PC

PC@shsu.edu

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Program Council introduced me to a world of opportunity, life experience, and the amazing people here at SHSU.” —Victoria Skinner Katy, TX

shsu.edu/studentactivities

CENTER FOR DIVERSITY AND INTERCULTURAL AFFAIRS Jordan Chang, Assistant Director Edwin Cantu, Program Coordinator

The Center for Diversity & Intercultural Affairs (CDIA) at Sam Houston State University enhances the academic and personal growth of all students through support and encouraging our Bearkat family to embrace the cultures of others and the diversity that surrounds us. CDIA seeks to enrich the Bearkat community through educational programming, vast cultural experiences and support for traditionally underrepresented student populations. So how do we do it? The Diversity Council acts as the programming component of CDIA. The Diversity Council is made up of an eight member student programming board whose responsibilities include planning and implementing up to 40 programs and events per academic year.

These events range from monthly cultural celebrations to the annual Diversity Leadership Conference in the spring semester. Diversity Council members are paid student employees who are able to develop their event planning skills while increasing their cultural competency at the same time.

In addition to the Diversity Council, CDIA provides resources in the shape of diversity trainings and an ever-growing intercultural library for students to learn more about their identity (and others) and its application to the real world. Tailored diversity trainings are offered to CDIA has allowed me to educate student organizations and myself and others about different classes through sessions cultures & customs from around developed by CDIA the world, which in turn allows staff members. Diversity me to connect & network with workshop requests can be people from all walks of life.” made through our website —Carlos Perez San Juan, Puerto Rico or simply be sending us an e-mail. To complement our diversity trainings, CDIA has a collection of relevant diversity and identity-centered books that students may checkout at no cost!

CDIA acknowledges that each student enters college with academics as their top priority; however, we believe our programs and resources assist in enhancing the collegiate experience for all students so that they are better prepared to work and live in a more global society upon graduation. We encourage everyone to get involved and embrace the rich diversity on SHSU’s campus! For more information, please visit our website at shsu.edu/diversity.

Find us on...

SHSU Center for Diversity & Intercultural Affairs @SHSUDiversity |

SHSUDiversity | Diversity@shsu.edu

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Bearkat Buzz TRADITIONS/SPECIAL EVENTS SAMMYPALOOZA & KAT Steven Begnaud, Assistant Director Kelly Patterson, Program Coordinator COMEDY SHOWCASE

WELCOME WEEK

As the new semester approaches, so does one of our most highly anticipated events…Welcome Week! Student Activities, in collaboration with other departments, plans over 20 events to welcome you to SHSU and there is a wide variety of activities where any student can find an event to spark their interest. During the annual new student move-in program, we coordinate over 450 volunteers to assist students with moving into the residence halls. Other events include Sammy’s Lip Sync Battle, Bearkat Picnic outside of Austin Hall, organization fairs and many other entertaining programs! Don’t forget to join us for a guaranteed night of free fun at our annual Kat Comedy Showcase. Also during Welcome Week, new students are introduced to Welcome Week Leaders – student leaders on campus whose goals are to ease the transition to Sam Houston State University. They do this by taking part in events, encouraging students to engage, involve, and connect as well as fostering Bearkat spirit.

FIREFEST! 

This annual event elevates school spirit in preparation to play Sam Houston’s biggest rival, the Lumberjacks of SFA! As students boost their burning desire to beat SFA, they gather with fellow Bearkats to enjoy a pep rally with members of the athletic teams as well as performances by SHSU Cheerleaders, Orange Pride Dance Team, and Sammy the Bearkat. A professional fireworks display and a 30 foot bonfire help build the hype for the Battle of the Piney Woods. Come out early and stay to help us count down the lighting of the bonfire!

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Each year, Student Activities brings the current top musical and comedy acts to SHSU. These events are a great way to see your favorite entertainers without ever having to leave campus! During fall Welcome Week, students are treated to comic relief with some of today’s funniest comedians in the Johnson Coliseum.

Past comedians include Nick Cannon, Pete Davidson, Craig Robinson and more! During the spring semester, students can enjoy live music from today’s top artists. Past artists include Gucci, Wiz Khalifa, Panic! at the Disco, Josh Turner, T.I. and more!

HOMECOMING

Each year, Homecoming fosters a week-long interaction among students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community. Student organizations compete in the Homecoming Spirit Competition, which features festive activities throughout the week. Students can also continue to show their Bearkat pride by participating in the annual Sam Jam Carnival, which features heartstopping rides, food and prizes. The Homecoming Parade is held on Thursday night and features our most spirited student organizations and athletic teams. Two hours before Saturday’s football kickoff, join us in Bearkat Alley for the tailgate party; you’ll see us again on the field during halftime as we crown SHSU’s Homecoming King and Queen. Visit shsu.edu/homecoming for a complete list of activities!

Engage. Involve. Connect.

TREE OF LIGHT

THE SAMMYS

The Sammys is the university’s official student award ceremony that recognizes SHSU’s outstanding student leaders and organizations. There are 7 individual college awards, 17 individual and organizational awards, and 4 Sammy Awards.

All nominations are confidential, and once submitted (and found to meet requirements) are distributed to the Sammys Selection Committee who determine the final recipients (excluding the seven individual college awards, which are determined by their respective dean). We encourage your participation and support of the Sammys. It is a wonderful opportunity for all to recognize the amazing students and organizations that SHSU has to offer.

BEARKAT ALLEY

Bearkat Alley is the official tailgate area during football season.

For every home game, the Department of Student Activities hosts a variety of organizations and departments who tailgate in a designated area at the North side of Bowers Stadium.

Student Activities gives out free food at every tailgate, including sausage and turkey legs! Also, different giveaways are distributed throughout the season, ranging from t-shirts to spirit towels, in order to boost Sam Houston spirit.

The annual Tree of Light ceremony has taken place for almost 100 years at Sam Houston State University and is the oldest and most cherished tradition.

Each year, students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community come together to celebrate a time of giving.

The ceremony began as an annual Christmas tree lighting and has evolved into a campus-wide celebration during the holiday season. During the ceremony, several different university groups perform including the SHSU Choral and the Orange Pride Dance Team.

Student organizations are also invited to decorate the tree with an ornament.

Hot chocolate and cookies are served and a canned-food drive is organized to donate nonperishable food items to the Good Shepherd Mission.

BEARKAT SPIRIT FRIDAY

Initiating a sense of pride and spirit at SHSU, Bearkat Spirit Friday is a weekly program held every Friday in the fall and spring semesters. Its purpose is to encourage students, faculty and staff at SHSU to wear Bearkat apparel (focusing on the Being a Welcome Week school colors, orange Leader has given me the and white) every Friday in amazing opportunity to support of SHSU. Student continue the tradition of giving Activities also distributes back to the SHSU community. various items on random Being able to guide the future days throughout each leaders at SHSU was a very semester to spread Bearkat rewarding experience.” spirit and bring incentive to —Brindon Reed support the program and Houston, TX university.

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Bearkat Buzz SPIRIT PROGRAMS Brian McColpin, Assistant Director Sarah Garcia, Spirit Programs Coach Meagan Balentine, Assistant Spirit Programs Coach Bearkat Nation truly is a nationwide sensation. Helping to spread this coast to coast attention are the nationally-ranked teams within Spirit Programs. They lead the campus and community in promoting Bearkat spirit all year long. The Co-Ed and All-Girl Cheerleaders, the Orange Pride Dance Team and our Mascot ‘Sammy the Bearkat’ start preparing in the summer for their fall and spring activities, which include football, volleyball and basketball games. They also promote and engage students at over 350 events over the two semesters.

During the spring semester, all teams compete in the NCA/NDA college nationals where they have won numerous National Being a member of Spirit Championship Titles. In Programs has taught me a lot addition to these events, Spirit about work ethic and dedication.

Programs members are active We work tirelessly to support in community service efforts and cheer on all of our fellow as well as numerous campus Bearkats while also preparing appearances. Students and for nationals. There is no greater departments may request experience than putting on our cheerleaders, dancers or the uniform and showing immense mascot to come to an event pride for our university!” by submitting a request form found online at shsu.edu/ —Jordan Johnson dept/student-activities/

Round Rock, TX spirit-programs.

Find us on...

Slo_Spirit@shsu.edu |

Sam Houston Sprit Programs

@SHSU_Cheer; @SHSU_OPDT SHSU_Cheer; OrangePrideDance; SammyBearkat

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Engage. Involve. Connect.

AROUND CAMPUS BOBBY K. MARKS ADMINISTRATION BUILDING was built in 1916. Originally this building was used as the Science and Administration Building. The building also housed the book store which was at the top of the steps closed off by the metal gate on the side of the building. The steps led to doors which held the YMCA, and later the bookstore. The doors were taken out and replaced by windows to make use of the space for offices. The building was renovated in the late 1990s and was named after Dr. Bobby K. Marks, SHSU’s 11th president. Dr. Marks retired after 41 years at Sam Houston State. Today it serves as offices for the President, University Advancement, and other various departments. Be sure to visit the 3rd floor glass display case to see gifts to the University from over the years.

THE GEORGE PEABODY MEMORIAL LIBRARY was built in 1901 to serve as the first library building on a college campus west of the Mississippi. The Peabody was named in honor of George Peabody, a northern business man who contributed money to start the Sam Houston Normal Institute. The Peabody was built in the shape of a cross and is 3792 square feet. By 1928 the college had outgrown the Peabody so when the Estill Library was built the Peabody became office and classroom space for the BearKat Band, faculty members, and dance classes. In the early 1980s, the Board of Regents voted to raze the tiny building. The public outcry kept away the wrecking ball and the building was redone to hold the University Archives. It housed the University Archives until. 2004. It is now used for university receptions, meetings and special events.

JOHN W. THOMASON BUILDING was built in 1952 and called the Graphic Arts Building. The production classes for the graphic arts was located on the first floor of the building. The second floor was the applied science classes and on the third floor was the journalism department with offices for the college newspaper, The Houstonian, and the yearbook, The Alcalde. The Thomason Building was named after the late Col. John W. Thomason, SHSU alumni, artist, and Marine, in 1961.

Hanging in the Thomason Building are examples of John W. Thomason’s artwork. In 2017, a renovation was completed on the building. Now housed in the building is the University Press and Copy center, Marketing and Communications offices, Human Resources Department, Payroll Office, and the Controller’s Office.

THE HARRY F. ESTILL BUILDING was built in 1928 as the 2nd library on campus and was named after the Sam Houston State President at the time, Harry Fishburne Estill. The Estill Building served as a library until 1968 when the Newton Gresham Library was built. After 1968 the library served a multitude of uses and departments from Art to History. In 2002 the academic departments were moved out of the building and it became home to the concept of, “one stop service,” to student affairs offices, such as Registrar Office, Bursar, Undergraduate Admissions, and Financial Aide. Be sure to look up to see the original sky light and down to see the Sam Houston mosaic on the floor of the lobby.

AUSTIN HALL is the oldest building on campus.

It was built in 1851 by the Presbyterians’ who named their college after Stephen F. Austin. In 1879 the building was presented to the State of Texas to establish the first Teachers College. The building is the oldest academic building still in use west of the Mississippi. In 2014, the Austin Hall building was named a National Register of Historic Places. It is currently used for university receptions, meetings and special events. Be sure to visit the Jewel Garden on the west side of the building to view statue of Ruth Whisenhant, class beauty, and the “ jewels” of Walker County that form the old gold fish pond border.

OLD MAIN MEMORIAL, was built in 1889 with a 1500 seat auditorium and classrooms, it was the finest building of its kind in Texas. Nicknamed “The Pit” and “The Queen of the Hill,” the Old Main Building, burned down on February 12, 1982. After the devastating fire it was ordered that the walls that were still standing be taken down to a certain height and a memorial be built with the remaining bricks that represented the “footprint,” of the building. Today you can still see the footprint of the Sam Houston Memorial Hall, the outlines of the classrooms, and the basement. During the Cold War, the Old Main basement was an official atomic bomb shelter. Now days the “Pit” is used for concerts, weddings, and special events.

LOWMAN STUDENT CENTER was completed in 1964 at a cost of 2 million dollars. The Harmon Lowman Student Center was named after SHSU’s 7th president, Harmon Lowman, who passed away in 1964. The LSC contained a ballroom, Olympic sized swimming pool in the basement, a barber and beauty shop, bookstore, fine restaurant, banquet hall, an auditorium, lounge, and snack bar. In 1981, an addition was added on to include a theater, additional meeting rooms and a disco. In 1999 a much larger renovation was done to the building. Most recently, in Spring 2019, an expansion to the Lowman Student Center (campus living room) was dedicated. This expansion included a larger food court, bowling alley, pub, sky bridge to the parking garage, a new improved Kat Klub, ballroom, conference rooms, courtyard dining, and inside atrium.

JACKSON SHAVER DORMS were completed in two different years. Andrew Jackson Hall was completed in 1939 and Charles Shaver Hall was completed in 1946. Jackson Hall was the 1st dorm built originally for only male students. Andrew Jackson Hall was named after Sam Houston’s friend Andrew Jackson. Charles Shaver Hall is named after SHSTC’s 6th President. In 1975 Jackson Shaver was closed to make way for renovation for the Houston Oilers who were staying at Sam Houston State for their summer practice camp. Today both the Halls are co-ed., have in-rooms safes, and have a view of the Sam Houston Memorial Park Complex.

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Bearkat Buzz SHSU TRADITIONS

It is doubtful those who coined the “BearKat” nickname had a kinkajou in mind, however.

More likely, the name came from a popular local saying of the time, “tough as a BearKat!” The late Reed Lindsey, who was a student/ athlete in the 1920s and later retired as University registrar, once said, “It was a good fighting name of the time.” Since the animal in the saying was thought more mythical than real, the spelling settled upon was “BearKat.”

MARCH TO THE GRAVE

Sam Houston was born March 2, 1793 in Rockbridge, Virginia. He eventually moved to Texas and served as Major General during the Texas Revolution. Sam Houston was a key figure in the important battle of San Jacinto in which Texas gained its independence. Upon creation of the Republic of Texas, Sam Houston was elected as the first president. After serving in several governmental roles, Sam Houston died on July 26, 1863 and was buried in Huntsville.

The March to the Grave began in 1893 in honor of Sam Houston’s birthday and Texas Independence Day. Every March 2nd, SHSU faculty, staff, students, and alumni gather at Old Main Pit and march to Sam Houston’s gravesite for a ceremony in which various dignitaries from the community speak.

In the late 1940s, then SHSU president Harmon Lowman attempted to change the SHSU mascot from BearKats to “Ravens” (after General Sam Houston’s Cherokee nickname). Mrs. Vernon Schuder reported that the alumni were polled, she voted for the raven but that “all those old BearKats beat us out!”

SHSU had a live kinkajou mascot in 1952 but the animal did not adapt to captivity and quickly was released from his duties. The current Sammy BearKat mascot

TRIPOD

‘SAMMY THE BEARKAT’ MASCOT

Sam Houston State University’s athletic teams have been nicknamed “The BearKats” since 1923 when the Texas State Legislature changed the University’s name from Sam Houston Normal Institute to Sam Houston State Teachers College. Prior to 1923, the varsity sports teams were nicknamed “The Normals”.

Early references to “BearKats” spelled the name either “Bearcats”, “Bear Cats” or “BearKats”. A bearcat actually is a kinkajou, a carnivorous mammal native to South America 10 to 12 inches in length with whiskers like a cat that sits up on its hind haunches like a bear. A nocturnal creature, it is known to be ferocious if provoked.

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On Tuesday, January 9, 1962, a man’s best friend died. He had been the unofficial mascot for Sam Houston State for over fifteen years.

The exact date of his arrival on campus is uncertain. Some reports indicate he was here in 1941, while other reports state 1948. He just appeared, with his crippled left front leg.

He was a mixed breed dog, described as a “mustard-colored mutt.” He was immediately “adopted” by the student body. He had no master and no permanent home. No one seemed to know how he had become lame.

Tripod, as he was named by the students, loved a parade and football games.

He managed to be on the scene of all major activities. He ate at dorms or fraternity houses.

He slept in apartments and dorms. He never lacked for food, affection, or medical care.

He made his annual visit to the veterinarian, carried by a friend. He always managed to have a new collar when one was needed.

On Friday, January 12, 1962, he was buried on the hill in front of Old Main. Huntsville Funeral Home furnished a baby casket, and

the Student Senate served as pall bearers. A three gun salute was given by the ROTC. Dr. Harmon Lowman, President of Sam Houston State, paid tribute to Tripod. The band was on hand to play. Hundreds of students attended the last rites. Two full pages in the “1962 Alcalde” were dedicated to the services for Tripod.

Death was attributed to old age and freezing weather conditions. Later a monument was erected to the memory of Tripod, the unofficial mascot. Engraving on the stone reads: “TRIPOD, 1941-1962, Beloved mascot, loyal supporter, friend of Students.”

BEARKAT CAMP

BearKat Camp is a four day/three night experience for incoming SHSU Freshmen.

New students experience the spirit, pride and tradition that have been part of Sam Houston students since 1879. Incoming freshmen are engaged in learning activities that are interactive and student led. Camp keeps students moving with a variety of group activities like tribal competitions, pride groups, socials and optional activities like sand volleyball, basketball, ropes course and a giant water catapult called the blob. BearKat Camp provides opportunities for students to build lasting friendships with many other members of the freshman class…friendships that allow students to feel comfortable and at home, as they become part of the Sam Houston community.

OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY RING & RING CEREMONY

The ring ceremony, first held in 2004, which was the 125th anniversary of Sam Houston State University, was established to create a new tradition for those who purchase the official University ring. The official ring was unveiled during the 2003 homecoming festivities and was designed by a committee comprised of student representatives, alumni and university administrators and faculty.

The goal of the committee was to develop a distinctive design that would reflect pride in Sam Houston State University, would be easily identifiable and would stand the test of time.

The ring design comprises, on one side of the ring, a representation of Sam Houston, the year of the student’s graduation and “1879,” the year Sam Houston Normal Institute was established to educate and train teachers.

Austin Hall is depicted on the opposite side, with a bit of the “footprint” of Old Main near its steps. The crest of the ring includes a background star symbolizing the State of Texas, and a raised “SH,” the official

Engage. Involve. Connect.

‘SAM…’HOUSTON’ CHANT/CHEER

Around 2010 a new chant/cheer started appearing at SHSU sporting events and various university functions. At various durations, one side of the audience yells ‘SAM’ then immediately following the other

university logo adopted in 2001. Cast into the inside of the ring is the word “Honor.” When Sam Houston joined the U.S. Army in 1813, Elizabeth Houston (Sam’s mother) understood her son’s decision. She placed a small gold band on his finger with a one-word inscription – HONOR. In 2013 a new aspect of the Ring Ceremony was introduced, where all the rings that are to be distributed at the ceremony, are placed in Sam Houston’s Home (on the Sam Houston Memorial Museum Grounds) overnight in his bedroom. The day of the ceremony, the rings are then transported, by the SHSU ROTC to the ceremony host site.

NEW STUDENT CONVOCATION The official induction and welcoming event for new students and their parents. New students are officially inducted into higher education and officially deemed Bearkats by SHSU President Dana Hoyt. In attendance are the university vice presidents, deans, faculty, staff, and students. Dinner and music will be provided afterwards on coliseum grounds. For more information, contact the First Year Experience Office.

COMMENCEMENT

Although commencement programs are traditions, they are not unique to Sam Houston State University. However, at least one function included in the commencement programs is distinctive: the singing of Auld Lang Syne, with the clasping of hands on the last verse and the raising of the hands and swaying on the final refrain. This very old custom is usually the final traditional act of students graduating from SHSU, and the image stays with them for many years.

side of the audience yells ‘HOUSTON’. This is then repeated several times, with the sides competing to see who can be the loudest, while also raising school spirit and pride.

THE UNIVERSITY MACE

The University Mace is symbolic of the authority of the Board of Regents, The Texas State University System, and the Office of the President of Sam Houston State University. The mace, used in academic convocations, is carried by the senior tenured faculty member of the University.

The initial use of the University Mace at Sam Houston State University was for the occasion of the summer commencement on August 20, 1988. The walnut staff is bound in brass and has a hexagonal head with inlays of pecan denoting the state tree and recessed brass medallions cast with designs for General Sam Houston, Austin Hall, Old Main, BearKats, and the completion date of the mace. The walnut holder base or stall is six-sided to match the mace head. The crown of the mace is a circular casting bearing the name of the University and the date of establishment, 1879. The center of the circle contains the state emblem, the lone star.

Below the crown, the names of past University presidents and the dates of service are engraved on a brass collar. The University Mace was designed and hand crafted by the late Charles R. Jedlicka, Associate Professor of Industrial Technology, who retired in 1989.

‘BATTLE OF THE PINEY WOODS’

The Battle of the Piney Woods is the rivalry between the Sam Houston State BearKats and the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks.

The rivalry is currently the second longest in the FCS with BearKats leading the series in football 63-28-2 as of 2016. On October 20, 2009, according to SFA Jacks.com and GoBearKats.com the Universities announced the rivalry was moving down to Houston, Texas, in Reliant Stadium. The Lumberjacks came away with a 31-28 victory in the debut game at Reliant Stadium in front of a record crowd of 24,685. In 2012, the contract for Reliant Stadium was extended through 2017.

In March of 2015 it was announced that NRG stadium would become the permanent home of the rivalry.

The rivalry is not only in football but also in men’s basketball where the Lumberjacks hold a slight lead 95-94 all-time, the last game was the 189th and extended the rivalry to 87 seasons. In the 2010 season, airing on ESPN2, the conference championship featured the “Piney Woods” rivalry in the finals with the BearKats coming out on top 64-48 to win the 2010 Southland Conference tournament and go onto play Baylor in the 1st round of the NCAA Tournament.

Since 2007, the winner of the “Battle of the Piney Woods” has earned a 21-pound solid cedar trophy that displays replica pistols attached to a tombstone. The logos from both universities are engraved on the handle of the pistols above name plates that will display the outcomes of the contest for the next two decades.

Prior to the trophy, a pair of Colt Walker Pistols were the original prize awarded to the winning team, beginning with the 1976 contest in the Houston Astrodome.

These pistols were lost over time and have not been recovered.

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Bearkat Buzz DID YOU KNOW?

More than 60 master’s programs 10 doctoral programs Faculty to student ratio of 20:1 with an average class size of 25 students More than 250 student organizations Recreational sports program with outdoor and indoor facilities Planetarium and observatory University Raven Nest Golf Course

Founded in 1879 and named after Texas’ greatest hero, General Sam Houston Beautiful 367 acre main university campus in Huntsville, Texas Certified enrollment of 21,363 students in Fall 2019 A diverse student body representing 60 countries NCAA Division I athletic program Over 90 undergraduate degree programs

25 residence halls and apartments Student-operated cable television station, radio station and newspaper Total annual 2019-20 budget of $388 million (approx. 24% comes from The State of Texas) Classified as a “Doctoral Research University” by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education, placing SHSU in top 7% of all U.S. colleges & universities

Recognized by Princeton Review as one of the “Best in the West” universities USA Today’s Top 50 in the U.S. for “commitment to civic engagement and global awareness” Named by U.S. News & World Report as a university “Growing Fast, Staying Friendly” Only school in Texas offering a concentration in PGA Golf Management, 1 of 18 in U.S. First accredited bachelor’s degree program in the U.S. for Banking and Financial Institutions Over $15 million in scholarships awarded annually Top ten in Texas for placing students in the work force after graduation Designated a community engaged university – One of 311 in the country with that honor More than 50% of students are first generation college student

Princeton Review recognized SHSU as “One of the best in the West” universities Ranked 1st in the nation for the Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Program by the U.S. News & World Report Top 15% nation-wide for keeping students on track to graduate Ranked in top 10 “Best Online Colleges in Texas” by affordablecollegesonline.org For the past 5 years, over 70% of graduates are working in Texas within 12 months (one of the highest in the state) Less than 2% of courses have greater than 100 students Ranked the best in Texas for low property crime rates on campus in the most recent report from ASecureLife.com, ranking the 100 most secure college campus in 2019.

Engage, involve and connect with Student Activities!