Introduction
Franklin Pierce University is a private liberal arts university located in Rindge, New Hampshire. Founded in 1962, the university is named after the 14th President of the United States, Franklin Pierce. With a total enrollment of around 2,400 students, the university offers over 40 undergraduate majors, 6 graduate programs, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy program. However, there are some lesser-known but fascinating facts about Franklin Pierce University that many people are not aware of. In this blog post, we will explore some of these fun facts.
Fun facts about Franklin Pierce University
The University’s Mascot
A university’s mascot is often an important symbol that represents the school and its values. Franklin Pierce University’s mascot is the Raven. The choice of the Raven as the mascot is interesting and unique. Ravens are intelligent, curious, and adaptable birds that are known for their problem-solving skills. They are also found in many cultures and mythologies around the world, and are often associated with wisdom and mysticism.
The Raven has been Franklin Pierce University’s official mascot since 2000. The decision to adopt the Raven as the mascot was made after a series of discussions and surveys involving students, faculty, and alumni. The Raven is a fitting symbol for the university, as it embodies many of the qualities that the institution values, such as intelligence, creativity, and resilience.
Franklin Pierce University’s Haunted Hall
Many universities and colleges have their share of ghost stories, and Franklin Pierce University is no exception. The university’s most famous haunted location is reportedly the 19th-century mansion known as the “Pierce House.” The mansion was originally built in the 1830s by Benjamin Pierce, the father of Franklin Pierce.
According to legend, the mansion is haunted by the ghost of Franklin Pierce’s sister, Nancy Pierce. Nancy died at a young age, and her ghost is said to haunt the mansion to this day. Visitors to the mansion have reported hearing strange noises, seeing apparitions, and feeling a strange presence in the house. Some people have even claimed to have seen the ghost of Nancy Pierce herself.
Despite the reports of paranormal activity, the Pierce House remains a popular destination for visitors to the university. The mansion has been restored to its original 19th-century appearance, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history of the house and the Pierce family.
The University’s Film Festival
Franklin Pierce University is home to an annual film festival that showcases the work of up-and-coming filmmakers from around the world. The festival, known as the Monadnock International Film Festival (MONIFF), was founded in 2011 and has since become one of the most prestigious film festivals in New England.
The festival is held every spring and features a wide variety of films, including documentaries, shorts, and feature-length films. The festival also hosts panels and workshops with industry professionals, allowing aspiring filmmakers to learn from experienced professionals in the field.
The Monadnock International Film Festival is a unique opportunity for students and members of the local community to experience the art of filmmaking up close. The festival also provides a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with audiences and industry professionals.
Franklin Pierce University’s Aviation Program
Franklin Pierce University is one of only a few universities in the United States that offer a degree in aviation. The university’s Aviation Science program prepares students for careers in the aviation industry, including piloting, air traffic control, and aviation management.
The program is housed at the university’s airport, which includes a fleet of aircraft, flight simulators, and other aviation-related equipment. The airport also serves as a training ground for students in the program, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in a real-world aviation setting.
The aviation program at Franklin Pierce University is unique in its approach to aviation education, as it combines traditional classroom learning with hands-on training. Students in the program are required to complete flight training in addition to their coursework, which gives them a comprehensive understanding of the aviation industry.
The University’s Connection to President Franklin Pierce
As mentioned earlier, Franklin Pierce University is named after the 14th President of the United States, Franklin Pierce. However, the university has a deeper connection to the president than just its name.
Franklin Pierce was born in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, which is located just a few miles from the university’s campus. Pierce attended nearby Bowdoin College in Maine, where he excelled in academics and became involved in politics. After serving in the New Hampshire state legislature, Pierce went on to become a U.S. Senator and eventually the President of the United States.
The university’s connection to President Pierce is celebrated in a number of ways. The university hosts an annual Franklin Pierce Symposium, which brings together scholars and experts to discuss the life and legacy of the president. The university also has a collection of artifacts and documents related to Pierce’s life and career, which are housed in the university’s archives.
The University’s Commitment to Sustainability
Franklin Pierce University is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. The university has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainability on campus and in the surrounding community.
One of the university’s most notable sustainability initiatives is its “green” dormitory, known as the Living Learning Environment (LLE). The LLE is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold-certified building that incorporates a number of sustainable features, such as solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and a geothermal heating and cooling system.
In addition to the LLE, the university has implemented other sustainability initiatives, such as a campus-wide recycling program, a bike-sharing program, and a community garden. The university also hosts an annual Sustainability Week, which includes a series of events and activities designed to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Conclusion
Franklin Pierce University is a unique and fascinating institution with a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence, sustainability, and innovation. From its unusual mascot to its haunted mansion, the university has a number of fun facts that make it stand out from other universities. Whether you’re a student, an alumni, or simply a curious visitor, there’s always something interesting to discover at Franklin Pierce University.