The Toller Celebration Bell rang in honor of the Official Ring recipients, who made this the largest ring ceremony since the tradition was created. The Arkansas Alumni Association hosted the Spring Ring Ceremony on April 21, 2009, at the Janelle Y. Hembree Alumni House to celebrate the 2009 Spring Ring recipients.
Suzanne Area, a junior and Student Alumni Board executive member, started the evening with a welcome and introduction of Mike Macechko, executive director of the Arkansas Alumni Association, who led off with some highlights on University of Arkansas traditions including the story of the Official Ring.
Official Ring Photos on Flickr
The ring fosters loyalty, pride and recognition of the University of Arkansas among graduates and alumni. It symbolizes the achievements, common bond and shared experience of University of Arkansas graduates. The images depicted on the ring celebrate how academics and athletics complement each other in the University of Arkansas student experience, representing the common shared experience of each student since the University of Arkansas doors were opened in 1871.
Old Main stands as our “Beacon of Hope” and is situated at the center of the ring. To one side of Old Main is the Academic Side. As the names of those who graduated are stamped into history on Senior Walk, it represents the academic prowess and the culmination of earning a degree from the University of Arkansas. The Spirit Side is situated on the other side of Old Main. It features the Razorback, calling the Hogs and pays tribute to our first mascot, the Cardinal. This side of the ring illustrates how our fierce spirit gives us strength and how our strength gives us spirit.
Official Ring Photos on Flickr
The record-breaking crowd of ring recipients and their family members joined the Alumni Association in cheer as the students received their rings and helped continue the tradition that began at the University of Arkansas in February 2002 when the Official Ring was unveiled. Holding true to tradition, the ring ceremony ended with the singing of the Alma Mater, led by junior and Student Alumni Board member, Ann Wizer, and a special champagne toast by Macechko welcoming the recipients to the Arkansas Alumni Family.
Students who were unable to attend and receive their Official Ring can pick it up at the University of Arkansas Bookstore on campus.
