Traditions

The university mace is used for all official proceedings like graduation and convocation. It is a traditional symbol of peaceful authority. When place on its stand, it signals an event has begun, and when removed, that the event has ended. Symbolic markers on the mace nod to Upstate’s history and future. Atop the mace is a silver flame representing the light of knowledge. On its head is the official university seal, along with an image of the main Administration Building.

Sparty, the Spartan, serves as USC Upstate’s official mascot. Donning a signature armor and helmet, Sparty is a fixture at athletic events and celebrations. The university has had several mascots throughout its history of competitive sports, including the Bantem, Rifle, Sparty as a black bear, and even an unofficial mascot, “Go Go Gorilla.”

The John C. Stockwell Administration Building is the oldest building on campus and can be seen in the distance by its shimmery, gold dome, a hallmark image of the university. In front of the building is the fountain, a favorite spot for graduation photos and also the site for the university ring ceremony. The university also hosts in the building a digital carillon bell system, which plays at every half hour and hour during weekdays. The bell also is sounded during special occasions.

The main campus is made up of natural green space, including a 12-acre Arboretum and a nearly 2-acre food forest, providing habitat for pollinators. Separated by grassy quadrants, several old favorites can be found along these areas.

The upper or main quad offers a scenic view of the Administration Building and is also the backdrop for commencement in the spring. Nearby is the Library adjoined by one of the newest campus buildings, the Learning Commons. At or near the lower quad are the hammocks and the rock, a marker that students paint with messages from student groups.

Unique to the Upstate campus is the Canada goose, a year-round resident in the Upstate, SC, region. These geese prefer grazing areas around safe bodies of water for their habitat, making areas like the lawns around the Rotary Lake on campus inviting. They often remember and return to the same places to hatch their young each year, even if they migrate during other seasons.

Provided by the Watershed Ecology Center

Students, alumni and the campus community frequently make a “U” hand gesture, a nod to Upstate’s primary athletic mark, as a symbol of university pride.