Behind the Mascot: UNT Class Ring Statue Celebrates Tradition in Bronze

When you think of school spirit, mascots usually come to mind first. They rally the crowd at games, embody tradition, and unite students and alumni alike. But at many universities, another powerful symbol of pride and accomplishment exists alongside the mascot: the class ring.

At the University of North Texas, the class ring has long been a tradition that connects generations of Mean Green students. And now, that tradition has been cast in bronze with the installation of UNT’s brand-new class ring statue, created by Big Statues.

More Than Jewelry: A Tradition of Meaning

For UNT students, receiving a class ring isn’t just about wearing a piece of jewelry. Every detail of the official ring design is carefully chosen to represent the spirit of the university:

• The University Seal — Featuring the lamp of learning, laurel wreath, and Texas Lone Star.
• The Year 1890 — Honoring UNT’s founding.
• The Green Stone — Representing UNT pride and identity.

Each element serves as a reminder that every graduate is part of something larger than themselves—a history, a community, and a legacy.

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A Tradition of Milestones

Beyond the design, UNT’s ring tradition is steeped in ritual. Students who reach 60 or more credit hours are eligible to participate in the official Ring Ceremony, where the class ring is presented in a moment that marks both achievement and transition. The Eagle Ring Dive, where students dip their new rings into the fountains at Library Mall, has become a beloved rite of passage.

Even the way the ring is worn has meaning: before graduation, students wear it facing inward as a personal reminder of their journey; after commencement, it’s turned outward for the world to see, signifying their new role as UNT alumni.

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Preserving Pride in Bronze

By bringing the class ring to life as a monumental bronze statue, UNT has transformed a personal milestone into a public landmark. Like mascot statues, the new class ring sculpture is already becoming a gathering place for photos, celebrations, and traditions, an anchor of school pride that will last for generations.

At Big Statues, we’re proud to help schools like UNT celebrate their legacies in enduring ways. Whether it’s a mascot that rallies the crowd or a class ring that honors achievement, these statues ensure that the traditions of today will inspire pride tomorrow

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