Introduction:
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is a private institution located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Established in 2001, the university has quickly become a hub for science and technology education in the region. With its focus on technology-driven education, Harrisburg University offers a unique educational experience that prepares students for careers in the rapidly evolving field of science and technology. But there is more to this university than just science and technology. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Harrisburg University of Science and Technology that you may not have known before.
The Campus:
Harrisburg University is located in the heart of downtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The campus is made up of three buildings that span several city blocks. Despite its urban location, the campus is home to a green roof that provides a unique space for students to relax and study. The roof is covered in grass and native plants and includes a seating area, walking paths, and even a small water feature. This innovative use of space not only provides a beautiful outdoor area for students but also contributes to the university’s commitment to sustainability.
The Mascot:
Harrisburg University’s mascot is a phoenix, a mythical bird that rises from the ashes to be reborn. The phoenix is a symbol of the university’s commitment to innovation and reinvention. The mascot can be seen throughout the campus, including on the university’s sports teams. In addition to the traditional phoenix mascot, the university also has a secondary mascot, a robot named Stormy. Stormy represents the university’s focus on technology and innovation and can often be found at technology-focused events on campus.
The Global Reach:
Despite being a relatively young university, Harrisburg University has a global reach. The university has partnerships with institutions around the world, including China, India, and Germany. These partnerships provide opportunities for students to study abroad and for faculty to collaborate on research projects with colleagues from around the world. In addition to these partnerships, Harrisburg University has also hosted several international conferences, bringing together experts in fields such as cybersecurity, biotechnology, and sustainability.
The eSports Program:
Harrisburg University is home to one of the top eSports programs in the country. The university’s varsity eSports team competes in games such as Overwatch, League of Legends, and Hearthstone. The team has won multiple championships and has even been featured on ESPN. In addition to the varsity team, Harrisburg University also has a club eSports team that competes in a variety of games. The university’s eSports program provides opportunities for students to develop leadership and teamwork skills while also pursuing their passion for gaming.
The Sustainability Commitment:
Harrisburg University is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. In addition to the green roof mentioned earlier, the university has also installed a solar panel array on one of its buildings, which provides renewable energy to the campus. The university has also implemented a bike-sharing program, which allows students and faculty to borrow bikes for free. These initiatives, along with others such as a composting program and a focus on reducing waste, demonstrate the university’s commitment to sustainability.
The Data Analytics Program: Harrisburg University is home to a nationally recognized data analytics program. The program, which is offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels, prepares students for careers in data analysis and data science. The program includes courses in statistics, data visualization, and machine learning, among other topics. In addition to traditional coursework, students in the data analytics program also have the opportunity to work on real-world data analysis projects through partnerships with local businesses and organizations.
The Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives: Harrisburg University is committed to diversity and inclusion and has implemented several initiatives to support underrepresented groups. The university has a Center for Diversity and Inclusion, which provides resources and support for students from diverse backgrounds. The university also has a Diversity and Inclusion Committee, which works to promote diversity and inclusion throughout the campus community. In addition, Harrisburg University has implemented several programs to increase the representation of women and minorities in science and technology fields, such as the Women in STEM Scholarship and the Tech Talent Pipeline program.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit:
Harrisburg University has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with a focus on innovation and technology startups. The university has a Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office, which helps faculty and students bring their research and technology ideas to market. In addition, the university hosts an annual Startup Week, which brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors to help launch new businesses. Harrisburg University also has a business incubator, the Harrisburg LaunchBox, which provides resources and support for entrepreneurs and startups.
The HU Storm:
Harrisburg University is home to several athletic teams, known collectively as the HU Storm. In addition to the varsity eSports team, the university has men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams. The university’s basketball teams play their home games in the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, a large indoor arena located in Harrisburg. The HU Storm provide opportunities for students to participate in competitive athletics while also pursuing their academic goals.
The Community Engagement: Harrisburg University is committed to community engagement and has implemented several programs to support the local community. The university has a Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center, which connects students with community organizations to provide service and support. In addition, Harrisburg University hosts several community events throughout the year, such as the Science Festival and the Health and Wellness Fair. These events provide opportunities for the community to engage with the university and learn more about science and technology.
Conclusion:
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is a unique and innovative institution that is committed to preparing students for careers in science and technology while also promoting sustainability, diversity, and community engagement. From its green roof and solar panels to its strong entrepreneurial spirit and focus on innovation, Harrisburg University is a leader in higher education. The university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, as well as its strong athletic programs and community engagement initiatives, make it a vibrant and dynamic community that is making a positive impact on the world.
