Kissing under "the Arch" custom revived at Upper Iowa University
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The Upper Iowa University Peacock Alumni |
FAYETTE, Iowa (April 15, 2011) – The Upper Iowa University Peacock Alumni for Student Traditions (PAST) organization has revived an old tradition last week—kissing under “the Arch.”
UIU’s iconic white “Memorial Arch” was built in 1908 on the western edge of campus, one year after Upper Iowa University’s 50th Anniversary, and has graced the west entrance to the Fayette campus ever since. Shortly after its arrival on campus, a custom was started that a girl was not a true UIU coed until she was kissed under “the Arch.”
According to PAST member and senior Nicole Henry, “We understand bringing back a tradition can be a slow process, so we were prepared to be patient. Much to our surprise, however, the event turned out to be quite successful.” Henry said over 30 people participated in the event, with five couples actually kissing under the Arch and the others kissing UIU mascot Pete the Peacock, who was available. Henry added, “Honestly, we would have been happy to have just one couple kiss under the Arch this first year, so it’s great.”
PAST’s mission is to bring UIU traditions and spirit back through various planned events to encourage and nurture participation by current students and their continued involvement as alumni.
A photo gallery of those who participated in the “Kissing under the Arch” event is available on Flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/upperiowauniversity.
For more information about Upper Iowa University, go to www.uiu.edu.
Contact:
Monica Bayer Heaton
Executive Director of Communications and Marketing
Phone: 563-425-5773
Cell: 515-291-2070
heatonm@uiu.edu
About Upper Iowa University
Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, not-for-profit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs and leadership development opportunities to nearly 6,800 students—nationally and internationally—at its Fayette campus and learning centers worldwide. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and independent study. For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.