Been There – Northwestern University

Starbucks Been There Northwestern University is probably the last mug from the Campus Collection. Looking back, it has been three years since the release of the first mug from this subset.

Northwestern University, founded in 1851, is a private research institution located in Evanston, Illinois. The university was established by nine prominent Chicago businessmen who sought to create a high-quality educational institution to serve the Northwest Territory. Initially starting with just two faculty members and ten students, Northwestern has grown into a renowned academic center with multiple campuses and a diverse student body. Over its 170-year history, the university has made significant contributions to various fields of study and has produced numerous notable alumni, including Supreme Court justices, Nobel laureates, and influential leaders in business, arts, and sciences.

Here are the symbols and landmarks of Northwestern University that we can spot in the design of the mug:

– The “Go Cats” chant is a rallying cry that unites Northwestern students, alumni, and fans during sporting events and university gatherings. This simple yet powerful phrase encapsulates the community’s support for the Northwestern Wildcats athletic teams.

– Northwestern University’s official mascot is Willie the Wildcat, a fierce feline character that embodies the spirit of the institution. Willie made his debut in 1947 and has since become an integral part of Northwestern’s athletic events and campus culture. The wildcat mascot was chosen to represent the university’s athletic teams’ fighting spirit, agility, and determination.

– University Hall, the oldest building on Northwestern’s Evanston campus, has been a cornerstone of the institution since its construction in 1869. This historic structure has served various purposes over the years, including classrooms, administrative offices, and even housing for students and faculty.

– The Weber Arch, located at the intersection of Sheridan Road and Chicago Avenue, serves as a symbolic gateway to Northwestern University’s Evanston campus. Dedicated in 1994, the arch was designed to welcome visitors and create a sense of arrival for those entering the university grounds. Its elegant stone construction and the Northwestern seal prominently displayed above make it a popular meeting point and photo opportunity for students, faculty, and visitors alike.

– The Northwestern University Marching Band, affectionately known as NUMB, is a vibrant ensemble that adds musical flair to university events. Founded in 1911, the band has become renowned for its energetic performances at football games, parades, and other campus celebrations. NUMB’s repertoire includes the university’s fight song, “Go U Northwestern,” as well as popular tunes that keep crowds engaged and entertained.

– Deering Library, with its stunning Gothic architecture, stands as an iconic symbol of Northwestern’s commitment to academic excellence. Completed in 1933, the library houses an extensive collection of rare books, special collections, and university archives. Its ornate reading rooms, intricate stained glass windows, and imposing facade make it a favorite spot for students to study and a popular backdrop for graduation photos.

– Welsh–Ryan Arena is the heart of Northwestern’s indoor athletic events, serving as the home court for the university’s basketball and volleyball teams. Originally built in 1952 and extensively renovated in 2018, the arena boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a capacity of over 7,000 spectators.