Introduction
Southwestern University is a private liberal arts college located in Georgetown, Texas. With a history spanning over 180 years, the university has developed a rich culture that reflects the values and traditions of the southwestern region of the United States. From its vibrant student life to its notable alumni, Southwestern University is a fascinating place to explore. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some fun facts about Southwestern University.
The campus architecture is inspired by the works of Frank Lloyd Wright
Southwestern University’s campus is a stunning display of modernist architecture, with buildings that are inspired by the works of Frank Lloyd Wright. The campus is designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, with buildings that are constructed from local materials such as limestone and red brick. The focal point of the campus is the iconic Lois Perkins Chapel, which is one of the largest collegiate chapels in the United States. The chapel is a masterpiece of architecture, with stunning stained glass windows and a soaring ceiling that reaches up to 60 feet.
The Fondren-Jones Science Center is another notable building on campus. It was designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, who was a student of Frank Lloyd Wright. The building is a prime example of modernist architecture, with its clean lines and simple, functional design. The building is home to state-of-the-art research facilities and laboratories, as well as classrooms and lecture halls.
Southwestern University is home to one of the oldest student-run newspapers in Texas
Megaphone is Southwestern University’s student-run newspaper, and it has been in publication since 1907. The paper covers a wide range of topics, including news, sports, opinion pieces, and feature stories. The Megaphone has won numerous awards over the years, including the Best All-Around Non-Daily Newspaper award from the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association.
The Megaphone is a vital part of student life at Southwestern University, and it provides students with a platform to express their opinions and showcase their journalistic talents. The paper is run entirely by students, from the writers and editors to the photographers and layout designers. The Megaphone has a rich history, and it is a testament to the creativity and innovation of Southwestern University’s students.
Southwestern University has produced several notable alumni
Southwestern University has a long history of producing successful alumni who have made their mark in various fields. Some of the most notable alumni include:
- Lyndon B. Johnson: The 36th President of the United States, who graduated from Southwestern University in 1930.
- Tom DeLay: The former U.S. Congressman, who graduated from Southwestern University in 1970.
- Sally Ride: The first American woman to travel to space, who graduated from Southwestern University in 1973.
- Steven Tobolowsky: The actor and author, who graduated from Southwestern University in 1973.
- Scott Douglas: The Olympic distance runner, who graduated from Southwestern University in 1990.
These alumni are a testament to the quality of education that Southwestern University provides, and they serve as role models for current and future students.
The Southwestern Pirates have a rich athletic tradition
Southwestern University’s athletic teams are known as the Pirates, and they have a rich tradition of success in various sports. The Pirates compete in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference, and they have won numerous conference championships over the years.
One of the most notable sports at Southwestern University is football. The Pirates have a long and storied history in football, and they have produced several NFL players over the years. The team plays their home games at Birkelbach Field, which has a capacity of 2,500 spectators.
In addition to football , Southwestern University’s athletic program offers a wide range of sports, including basketball, baseball, soccer, tennis, golf, swimming, and diving. The university also has a robust intramural sports program, which allows students to participate in sports such as flag football, basketball, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee.
The university’s commitment to athletics is reflected in its state-of-the-art sports facilities. The Robertson Center is a 125,000-square-foot facility that includes a fitness center, a swimming pool, basketball courts, and racquetball courts. The Corbin J. Robertson Tennis Center is a 12-court tennis complex that hosts both collegiate and community tournaments.
Southwestern University is committed to sustainability
Southwestern University is committed to sustainability, and the university has taken numerous steps to reduce its environmental impact. In 2008, the university signed the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, pledging to become carbon neutral by 2050. The university has since implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including the installation of solar panels on campus buildings and the implementation of a campus-wide recycling program.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Southwestern University is also dedicated to promoting environmental education and awareness. The university offers a sustainability minor, which provides students with an interdisciplinary education in environmental studies. The university also hosts the Green Fund, which provides funding for student-led sustainability projects on campus.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southwestern University is a fascinating place with a rich history and culture. From its stunning architecture to its successful athletic program, the university has something to offer everyone. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on providing a quality education, Southwestern University is sure to continue to make a positive impact in the years to come.
