Spread the word. Wear black and gold on Sept. 3.
That’s MU’s reminder to Tiger fans everywhere to mark their calendars for national College Colors Day. The annual celebration, always held the Friday before Labor Day, coincides with the start of the fall semester and the kick-off of the college football season. The event promotes the traditions of the college experience by encouraging people to wear apparel of their favorite college or university throughout the day.
At Mizzou, of course, that means black and gold.
MU has participated in the event since it was first organized by the Collegiate Licensing Company in 2005, said Linda Gilbert, administrator for MU’s licensing and trademark program. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends are encouraged to don their favorite Mizzou gear and plan a black-and-gold event, such as an office tailgate, an afternoon break featuring Tiger Stripe ice cream, or to compete in a best-dressed fan or office contest.
This year, more than 1,700 staff in more than 50 departments and offices campuswide have signed up to wear black or gold or to host a spirit activity. Every extension office in each of the 114 Missouri counties, along with the City of St. Louis, will be celebrating as well by competing for prizes furnished by MU’s licensing and trademark program. That adds up to more than 800 employees.
“The contests make them feel a part of MU, even though they are far away,” Gilbert said.
Because of the holiday weekend, some units, like the School of Health Professions, will kick off their celebration on Thursday, Sept. 2. One of health professions’ students is on the gymnastics team, so the school has invited representatives from the team to review last season and give a preview of the upcoming season.
“This will be a chance for the school to meet one of the health professions’ students and hear from the coaches,” said Jeneva Powell, coordinator of special events. “This becomes a two-day event for us, and it is one of our favorite activities.”
MU fans who will be away from campus or town on Sept. 3 can still show their stripes on Wednesday, Sept. 1. A pep rally will be held at 6:45 p.m. in the Cafe Court section of Columbia Mall.
For more information, e-mail Gilbert at gilbertl@missouri.edu or visit collegecolorsday.com or MU Black and Gold on Facebook.