Introduction
Pittsburg State University, commonly referred to as PSU, is a public university located in Pittsburg, Kansas. Established in 1903, the university offers more than 150 academic programs across its four colleges, namely the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education, the College of Technology, and the Kelce College of Business. With a student population of around 7,000, PSU is known for its excellent academic programs and beautiful campus. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Pittsburg State University.
Fun facts about Pittsburg State University
The Gorilla Mascot
The Gorilla is the official mascot of Pittsburg State University. The university’s athletic teams are known as the Pittsburg State Gorillas. The Gorilla has been the official mascot since 1924, and it is a symbol of strength, intelligence, and spirit. The origins of the Gorilla mascot can be traced back to a game against the University of Kansas in 1920, where a group of PSU students dressed up in gorilla costumes and cheered on the football team. The idea caught on, and the Gorilla became the official mascot four years later. Today, the Gorilla can be seen at all PSU athletic events, leading the crowd in cheers and entertaining the fans with its antics.
The Baja Car
The Baja car is a student-designed and built off-road vehicle that competes in the Baja SAE competition. The competition is organized by the Society of Automotive Engineers and challenges teams to design and build a vehicle that can navigate a rough and rugged off-road course. Pittsburg State University has been participating in the competition since 2003, and the team has consistently placed in the top 10. In 2017, the team won first place in the endurance race, which is the most challenging part of the competition. The Baja car project is an excellent example of the hands-on, experiential learning opportunities available at Pittsburg State University.
The Governor’s Scholars Program
The Governor’s Scholars Program is a prestigious scholarship program that provides full tuition and fees to high-achieving Kansas students who attend Pittsburg State University. The program was established in 1986 and has since awarded scholarships to over 1,000 students. To be eligible for the program, students must meet specific academic criteria, demonstrate leadership potential, and commit to giving back to their communities. The program provides students with unique opportunities for leadership development, community service, and cultural enrichment.
The Axe Library
The Leonard H. Axe Library is the main library at Pittsburg State University. The library houses over 500,000 volumes of books, journals, and other materials, including a special collection of works by local authors and a collection of rare books. The library is also home to the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Technology, which provides faculty with resources and support for teaching and learning. The library is named after Leonard H. Axe, who served as the university’s president from 1969 to 1982.
The Nursing Program
The Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing at Pittsburg State University is one of the most highly regarded nursing programs in the region. The nursing program offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing and has a reputation for producing highly skilled and compassionate nurses. The program boasts state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical partnerships with leading healthcare providers in the region. In 2020, the program was ranked #1 in Kansas by RegisteredNursing.org.
The Crimson and Gold Newspaper
The Crimson and Gold is the student-run newspaper at Pittsburg State University. The newspaper has been in circulation since 1905 and provides students with an opportunity to gain real-world experience in journalism and publishing. The newspaper covers a wide range of topics including campus news, sports, entertainment, and opinion pieces. The Crimson and Gold has won numerous awards over the years, including the Kansas Associated Collegiate Press Award for General Excellence in 2017 and 2018.
The Veterans Memorial Amphitheater
The Veterans Memorial Amphitheater is a beautiful outdoor venue located on the campus of Pittsburg State University. The amphitheater was built in 1951 to honor the men and women who served in World War II and has since been expanded to include all veterans. The venue is used for a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and ceremonies. The amphitheater is surrounded by a beautiful park, which features a walking path, picnic areas, and a pond.
The Biology Greenhouse
The Biology Greenhouse at Pittsburg State University is a unique facility that provides students with hands-on experience in plant science and research. The greenhouse houses a wide variety of plants, including rare and exotic species, and provides students with the opportunity to conduct experiments and research projects. The greenhouse also hosts educational programs and workshops for the community, promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.
The Wind Turbine
The Wind Turbine at Pittsburg State University is a 100-kilowatt wind turbine located on the campus’s southeast corner. The turbine was installed in 2011 and generates approximately 15% of the university’s electricity. The turbine serves as a symbol of the university’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy. The turbine is also used for research and educational purposes, providing students with hands-on experience in the field of renewable energy.
The Goin’ Band
The Goin’ Band is the marching band of Pittsburg State University. The band was formed in 1904 and has since become a beloved tradition on campus. The band performs at all home football games, parades, and other campus events. The Goin’ Band is known for its high-energy performances and innovative halftime shows. The band has won numerous awards over the years, including the Sudler Trophy in 2017, which is awarded to the top marching bands in the country.
Conclusion
Pittsburg State University is a vibrant and dynamic institution that offers students a wide range of academic programs and hands-on learning opportunities. From the Gorilla mascot to the Baja car, the Governor’s Scholars Program to the Wind Turbine, and everything in between, Pittsburg State University has something for everyone. We hope that these fun facts have given you a glimpse into the rich history and unique culture of this exceptional university.
