Need ideas for the perfect gift to celebrate the birthday of a university mascot?
East Tennessee State University chose to mark the occasion with the unveiling of a new campus landmark – an 8-foot-tall Bucky the Buccaneer in bronze. The new statue weighs in just under 1,000 pounds.
The surprise reveal of the new bronze Bucky, which was made possible by an anonymous gift, was part of Bucky’s birthday celebration on Aug. 23. The event was attended by students, alumni, and other members of the community during ETSU’s Preview activities to welcome new students to campus.
The statue marks the conclusion of Phase II of the University Commons at the intersection of Jack Vest and South Dossett Drive, just steps from the entrance to William B. Greene Jr. Stadium. The location on ETSU’s University Commons was chosen for its visibility and significance as a gathering point for students and fans on game days and beyond.
“This statue is more than a tribute to our mascot – it is a lasting symbol of Buccaneer pride,” said ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland. “It captures the spirit, tradition and pride that define the ETSU experience.”
Bucky is one of the most photographed individuals on campus, so campus leaders hope that the Bucky statue will become a new “Instagrammable” spot on campus, offering a memorable photo opportunity for current and future generations of Bucs.
The birthday celebration also featured appearances from ETSU Cheer and Dance teams, university leaders, and of course, Bucky himself, who joined the crowd in unveiling the statue.
The university also presented Bucky with a Birthday Proclamation to mark the occasion:
Whereas Bucky has long served as the spirited and swashbuckling symbol of East Tennessee State University, representing our pride, passion, and Buccaneer spirit; and
Whereas Bucky faithfully appears at athletic competitions to cheer our Buccaneers to victory, rallying fans with his boundless energy and unwavering commitment to school spirit; and
Whereas Bucky’s presence graces our most treasured university traditions and milestone celebrations, from Preview to Commencement, bringing joy to Buccaneers past, present, and future; and
Whereas Bucky has earned the distinguished honor of being the most photographed individual on campus, starring in countless selfies, family portraits, and game-day snapshots, each one a keepsake of ETSU pride; and
Whereas Bucky’s legendary ability to unite students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members under the Buccaneer banner has cemented his place as not merely a mascot, but an enduring friend and ambassador of our university – and a buccaneer worthy of his own bronze statue;
Now, therefore, I, Dr. Brian Noland, President of East Tennessee State University, do hereby proclaim August 23, as Bucky’s Official Birthday, encouraging all Buccaneers near and far to celebrate this beloved mascot who embodies the heart and spirit of ETSU.
Argh! Go Bucs!
