Been There – The University of Arizona
The University of Arizona, nestled in the vibrant city of Tucson, is a place where academic excellence, rich traditions, and the spirit of the Southwest converge. Starbucks Been There The University of Arizona mug encapsulates its essence, featuring an array of symbols and elements that reflect its history, campus life, and the unique beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The University of Arizona, also known as U of A, is a public research university located in Tucson. Founded in 1885, it is the state’s oldest university and is known for its academic excellence and research contributions.
The design of the mug incorporates several significant elements using the university’s official colors, cardinal and navy:
– Wilbur and Wilma wildcats are the beloved mascots of the University of Arizona, adding a touch of spirit and excitement to the university’s athletic events and campus life. They are an inseparable pair, embodying the pride and enthusiasm of Arizona’s student body.
– The Pride of Arizona Marching Band is a renowned marching band that was founded in 1904. It has a rich heritage and tradition of excellence. The band performs at a variety of events both on and off-campus, including football games, parades, and concerts. Membership in the band is open to all University of Arizona students, regardless of major or experience level. In addition to the marching band, the University of Arizona also has a pep band that performs at basketball games and other sporting events.
– The “Bear Down Arizona” slogan is a well-known phrase associated with the university’s athletic teams. It encapsulates the university’s fighting spirit and determination. Originally coined by a legendary football coach, the phrase has become a rallying cry for students, faculty, and alumni alike.
– The cacti that we can see on the back of the mug are a nod to the university’s location in the Sonoran Desert, which is known for its unique flora and fauna. The university is home to a renowned desert research laboratory, which is a commitment to studying the environment and preserving the natural beauty of the region.
– The University of Arizona is home to a diverse and successful range of athletic teams, known as the Arizona Wildcats. From the roar of the crowd at Arizona Stadium during football season to the intensity on the basketball court at the McKale Center, the Wildcats’ prowess extends across a range of sports
– The “Old Main” building a.k.a. “University of Arizona School of Agriculture” is a historic and iconic structure that stands proudly at the heart of the university’s campus. Built in 1891, it is the oldest building on campus and serves as a symbol of the university’s rich history and enduring legacy.
– Established in 1918 under the visionary leadership of its inaugural director, Andrew Ellicott Douglass, Steward Observatory’s origins are rooted in his dedicated efforts. Arriving in Arizona in 1894 with support from Percival Lowell, Douglass played a pivotal role in founding Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff. Upon joining the University of Arizona’s faculty in 1906, he aspired to establish a similar observatory in the southern part of the state. The catalyst for realizing this ambition came from the generous bequest of Mrs. Lavinia Steward in 1916, in memory of her late husband, Henry B. Steward. This endowment paved the way for the construction of Steward Observatory on a secluded portion of university land, previously an ostrich farm. Despite construction delays due to World War I, the observatory was finally consecrated in 1923. Notably, the observatory’s 36″ diameter Newtonian telescope held the distinction of being the first astronomical telescope constructed entirely with products made in America.
