Introduction
Spring Arbor University (SAU) is a small Christian university located in the charming town of Spring Arbor, Michigan. Founded in 1873, the university has a rich history of providing quality education to students from all walks of life. Over the years, SAU has grown in size and scope, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. In this blog post, we will explore some fun and interesting facts about Spring Arbor University that you may not have known before.
SAU’s Unique Mascot
SAU’s mascot is the cougar, a powerful and agile predator native to North America. But what makes SAU’s cougar unique is that it has a name: Claw’d. Claw’d is a beloved symbol of school spirit and can often be seen prowling the sidelines at athletic events. The idea of naming the mascot came about in 2006, when a group of students decided that the cougar needed a more personal touch. After a campus-wide vote, the name Claw’d was chosen, and it has been the official name of SAU’s cougar ever since.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. SAU’s athletic department has taken Claw’d to the next level by creating a series of costumes that feature the cougar in different outfits. Some of these costumes include a graduation gown, a chef’s hat and apron, and even a superhero costume. These costumes are used to entertain the crowds at athletic events and have become a popular tradition at SAU.
SAU’s Commitment to Service
At Spring Arbor University, service is not just a buzzword – it is a way of life. SAU’s commitment to service is evident in the many volunteer opportunities that are available to students throughout the year. One of the most popular service programs is SAU’s annual Cross-Cultural Studies trip. This trip takes students to a different country each year, where they have the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of the region while also providing service to the local community.
In addition to the Cross-Cultural Studies program, SAU also has a thriving community service program. Through this program, students can volunteer at local schools, nursing homes, and other community organizations. The university also hosts an annual service day, during which students, faculty, and staff work together to complete service projects throughout the community.
SAU’s Beautiful Campus
SAU’s campus is often described as one of the most beautiful in the state of Michigan. The campus is located on over 100 acres of rolling hills and wooded areas, providing a picturesque setting for students to live and learn. The university’s many buildings are designed in a traditional style, with red brick and white columns, giving the campus a classic feel.
One of the most iconic buildings on SAU’s campus is White Library. Built in 1966, the library is a three-story building that houses over 200,000 volumes. The library’s unique design includes a spiral staircase that leads up to the top floor, where students can enjoy a stunning view of the campus. The library is also home to a number of study spaces and computer labs, making it a popular spot for students to work and relax
SAU’s Strong Athletics Program
Despite being a small university, SAU has a strong athletics program that has produced many successful athletes over the years. The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and competes in the Crossroads League, a conference made up of 10 Christian universities in the Midwest.
Some of the most successful sports programs at SAU include men’s soccer, women’s soccer, men’s basketball, and women’s track and field. SAU has also had a number of individual athletes who have excelled in their respective sports and gone on to compete at the professional level. One such athlete is Sam Bowers, a former SAU baseball player who was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2016.
In addition to its athletic success, SAU is also committed to helping its student-athletes succeed academically. The university has a dedicated athletic academic support program, which provides tutoring, study groups, and other resources to help student-athletes balance their athletic and academic responsibilities.
SAU’s Global Reach
While SAU is a small university, it has a global reach that extends far beyond the borders of Spring Arbor, Michigan. The university has partnerships with over 30 international institutions, allowing students to study abroad in countries like China, South Korea, and Spain.
SAU also has a strong online program, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs to students all over the world. Through its online program, SAU has helped students from as far away as Australia and South Africa earn their degrees.
Conclusion:
Spring Arbor University may be a small school, but it has a big impact on the lives of its students and the communities it serves. From its unique mascot to its commitment to service, SAU is a university that values tradition, innovation, and excellence. Whether you are a current student, an alum, or simply someone who appreciates the power of education, Spring Arbor University is a place that is sure to leave a lasting impression.