The traditions that connect us.
Our campus traditions unite all Spartans—from the ceremonies that bring our community together to the spaces where lifelong memories are made. These traditions honor our history, inspire us, and continue to shape our community as we move forward together.
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 signature armor and helmet, Sparty is a fixture at athletic events and celebrations.
The John C. Stockwell Administration Building is the campus’ first building 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.
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.
Anniversaries and Milestones
Sixty Years. One Dome. Endless Possibilities.
60th Anniversary
The university celebrates 60 years since its founding in 1967. Learn more about the stories we’re collecting from all Spartans in our Oral History Project. Follow highlights from past and present on our campus timeline.