 "Photo: Jackie Gilles, Daily Texan Staff")
The University’s first official colors were maroon and orange, and the first mascot, a dog named “Pig,” is buried somewhere around Mezes Hall. And contrary to popular belief, the story about Aggies branding 13-0, the winning score of a football game, on the UT longhorn did not inspire the steer’s name, Bevo.
UT’s Leadership and Ethics Institute hosted a presentation Wednesday during which Texas Exes representative Meera Rajagopalan informed administrators and institute members about University traditions. The institute aims to provide information on a range of University-related topics and give student leaders of campus organizations tools to plan events by hosting similar workshops.
Rajagopalan told the group about the “hook ‘em horns” sign, created by head cheerleader Harley Clark in 1955, and encouraged students to go to Monday’s Hex Rally. The rally is a tradition that takes place before every UT and Texas A&M game where University students place a “hex” on their maroon rivals.
Rajagopalan, a journalism junior, gave workshop participants background stories and facts about famous UT traditions.
“There’s no way I was going to miss the rally or the game, even though my mom kept offering to pick me up before Thanksgiving,” she said. “This workshop is a great way for us to get our name out there.”
The workshops were created to inform student leaders about writing constitutions and bylaws, trademark and licensing laws, ethical leadership, event planning and hazing.
The next and last workshop of this semester will take place on Dec. 3 and deals with the application of social justice issues.
Speakers vary, and can include faculty, administrators and students.
As the largest organization on campus, Texas Exes has 2,600 student members and hosts events such as the Torchlight Parade and Rally before the OU game, the Hex Rally before the Texas A&M game and the Oozeball Tournament.
“As a Longhorn, it’s important that I know about everything that makes UT as awesome as it is,” said Kezia Warner, an attendee and journalism senior.
The workshops will continue next semester. Business senior Karina Singh, who will be in charge of the workshops next semester, said she plans to hold four workshops on the last Wednesday of every month.
“We’ll have faculty present topics on suicide prevention and travel while student leaders will present on motivating members and campus resources,” Singh said. “We’re trying to make every session practical and engaging for student leaders.”
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