Introduction
The University of Rio Grande, located in Rio Grande, Ohio, is a vibrant and dynamic institution of higher learning. Founded in 1876, the university has a rich history and has been an important part of the Rio Grande community for over 145 years. Today, the University of Rio Grande is a modern institution with state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse student body. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about the University of Rio Grande that you may not have known.
The University of Rio Grande has a unique mascot
Many universities have mascots that are common to their region or state, but the University of Rio Grande has a mascot that is unique to the school. The Rio Grande RedStorm is a fierce-looking bird that was created specifically for the university. The RedStorm is a combination of a cardinal and a hawk, with a bright red body, a sharp beak, and piercing eyes. The RedStorm is an important symbol of school pride and is often seen at athletic events and other university functions.
The mascot was created in 2000, after a contest was held to determine a new mascot for the university. The winning design was submitted by then-sophomore Tonya Haislop, who won a $100 prize for her efforts. The Rio Grande RedStorm has since become an important part of the university’s identity, and is recognized by students and alumni alike.
The University of Rio Grande has a strong athletic tradition
The University of Rio Grande has a proud athletic tradition that dates back to the early days of the school. The university’s athletic teams are known as the RedStorm, and compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The RedStorm have won numerous conference championships in a variety of sports, including basketball, baseball, volleyball, and cross country.
One of the most famous athletes to come out of the University of Rio Grande is Bevo Francis. Francis played for the RedStorm basketball team in the 1950s, and set a record that still stands today. In 1954, Francis scored 113 points in a single game, a feat that has never been matched at any level of basketball. Francis went on to play professionally for a short time, but his record-breaking performance at the University of Rio Grande remains his most enduring legacy.
The University of Rio Grande has a unique academic program
The University of Rio Grande is known for its strong academic programs, but one program stands out as particularly unique. The university’s Adventure Recreation program is a one-of-a-kind program that prepares students for careers in the outdoor recreation industry. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on experience, and includes courses in wilderness first aid, rock climbing, kayaking, and more.
The Adventure Recreation program is a popular choice for students who love the outdoors and want to make a career out of their passion. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in a variety of outdoor recreation fields, including guiding, teaching, and outdoor leadership.
The University of Rio Grande has a beautiful campus
The University of Rio Grande is located in a picturesque part of southern Ohio, and the campus is known for its natural beauty. The campus covers over 150 acres, and includes a variety of architectural styles, from historic buildings to modern facilities. The campus is home to a number of green spaces, including a large pond, a butterfly garden, and several walking trails.
One of the most beautiful spots on campus is the Davis Library, which was built in 1935 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The library features stunning architecture, including a grand staircase and a stained-glass window depicting the university’s founding. The library is also home to a collection of over 200,000 books, as well as an extensive collection of digital resources.
The University of Rio Grande has a commitment to community service
The University of Rio Grande is committed to serving the surrounding community, and has a number of programs in place to support this mission. One of the most notable programs is the Rio Grande Community Outreach program, which provides a range of services to local residents, including health screenings, literacy programs, and legal assistance.
In addition, the university has a number of service-oriented student groups, including the Student Nurses Association and the Criminal Justice Club. These groups participate in a variety of community service projects throughout the year, including food drives, blood drives, and volunteer work with local non-profit organizations.
The University of Rio Grande has a strong online presence
In addition to its on-campus programs, the University of Rio Grande also has a strong online presence. The university offers a number of fully online degree programs, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as business, education, and nursing. Online students have access to the same high-quality faculty and resources as on-campus students, and can complete their coursework on a flexible schedule.
The university’s online presence also includes a robust social media presence, with active accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. These accounts are used to promote university events, share news and updates, and connect with current and prospective students.
Conclusion
The University of Rio Grande is a unique and dynamic institution of higher learning with a rich history and a commitment to excellence. From its one-of-a-kind mascot to its strong athletic tradition, the university has a lot to offer students and the surrounding community. With its commitment to community service and its strong online presence, the University of Rio Grande is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence well into the future.
