Introduction
Located in Alma, Michigan, Alma College is a private liberal arts institution that has been shaping young minds for over 130 years. Known for its academic rigor, diverse student body, and beautiful campus, Alma College has a lot to offer. But did you know that there are also a ton of fun facts about Alma College that make it even more special? In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into some of the most interesting and surprising aspects of Alma College.
Alma College’s unique mascot and school colors
Alma College’s mascot is the Scotsman, a fierce warrior dressed in a traditional Scottish kilt and wielding a sword. The Scotsman has been the official mascot of Alma College since 1931, but it wasn’t until 1957 that the school adopted the tartan plaid as its official school colors. The Alma College tartan was designed by a student named Bob McConnell, who wanted to create a distinctive symbol for the school. The colors of the tartan are maroon, gold, and navy blue, and it can be seen all over campus on everything from banners to scarves.
Alma College also has a unique tradition known as “The Fight Song Challenge.” Every year during Homecoming Week, the student body gathers in the middle of campus to sing the Alma College fight song, “Alma, Mater Alma.” The catch is that the lyrics are changed each year by a student committee, and the new lyrics are not revealed until the day of the event. This means that everyone has to learn the new lyrics on the spot, creating a fun and festive atmosphere.
Alma College’s impressive sustainability efforts
Alma College is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of innovative programs to reduce its environmental impact. One of the most notable is the “Alma Green” initiative, which focuses on reducing waste and promoting energy conservation. The initiative includes a composting program, a bike-sharing program, and a solar panel installation project.
The college has also implemented a “trayless dining” program, which encourages students to take only what they can eat and reduces food waste. In addition, Alma College has a “green roof” on one of its buildings, which helps to regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy consumption.
But perhaps the most impressive sustainability effort at Alma College is its geothermal heating and cooling system. The system, which was installed in 2010, uses the earth’s natural heat to warm buildings in the winter and cool them in the summer. This innovative system reduces the college’s energy consumption and carbon footprint, making Alma College a leader in sustainable campus design.
Alma College’s notable alumni
Alma College has a long history of producing successful and accomplished alumni. Some of the most notable include:
- Ronald L. Emery: A 1954 graduate of Alma College, Emery went on to become the CEO of the automotive supplier Metaldyne. He was also a member of the Alma College Board of Trustees and a generous donor to the college.
- John Edward Brown: Brown is a 1960 graduate of Alma College and the founder of the restaurant chain “Johnny Rockets.” He has also been involved in a number of philanthropic ventures and is a noted collector of American pop culture artifacts.
- Justin Amash: Amash is a 2002 graduate of Alma College and a former member of the United States House of Representatives. He is known for his libertarian views and was the first Arab American to serve in Congress.
- Sara Lippincott: Lippincott is a 1922 graduate of Alma College and the first female president of Vassar College. She was also a prominent feminist and advocate for women’s education.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Alma College is morethan just a prestigious academic institution. Its unique mascot and school colors, impressive sustainability efforts, and notable alumni all contribute to its rich history and culture. From the Scotsman to the geothermal heating and cooling system, Alma College has a lot to be proud of. Whether you’re a current student, an alum, or just someone interested in learning more about this amazing school, there is always something new and exciting to discover at Alma College. So next time you find yourself on campus, take a closer look and see what fun facts you can uncover!