Student Handbook

Official School Colors - Chosen in 1922, these school colors are Emerald Green and White. Secondary colors were added in 1995, which are Navy Blue and Gold.

Lighting the McConnell Tower - After a victory by a UNT athletic team, special green floodlights bathe the Administration Building clock tower to signal the victory to the campus and community.

Scrappy, The Eagle Mascot - Students in a 1922 campus election chose the eagle over the dragon and lion as the college's mascot. In the '60s, a costumed Scrappy began appearing at games and other events. The mascot was renamed Eppy in 1974 by students who thought the name "Scrappy" was too warlike.  However, Scrappy was reborn in 1995, when students decided the first name was better.

Eagle Claw - The eagle hand sign is our universal sign of pride and unity. Curl the thumb and index and middle fingers forward. The ring and pinkie fingers stay closed against the palm.

Honors Day - Outstanding students, faculty and staff are recognized in an afternoon ceremony that often includes alumni as guest speakers.

Alumni Appreciation Day - For more than 30 years, the university and many academic departments have set aside a day to recognize successful and dedicated alumni, inviting them back to campus for special events.

University Day - First held in 1961, when North Texas State College became North Texas State University, this spring event includes games, music and food.

Homecoming Bonfire - The tradition of the Homecoming bonfire began in the 30's. Members of the Talons spirit organization build the fire, which is lit the Friday night of Homecoming at the Eagle Point Golf Course.

Homecoming Parade - Held the morning of the Homecoming game, the parade includes floats made by students, faculty, staff and alumni. The route runs from campus to downtown Denton.

Mean Green Nickname - Although green has been the school color since around 1902, the "Mean Green" nickname dates from the late '60s when the football team's defense was dominating other teams. One of the outstanding players at the time was "Mean" Joe Greene.

Boomer, The Victory Cannon - The tradition of firing the cannon began in 1970. The modern cannon is a scale replica of a Civil War model and is managed by the Talons. Boomer is fired at special campus events and at football games to signal touchdowns.

Curfew and Spirit Bell - The Spirit Bell was brought to Denton from Michigan in 1891. It was used to signal class changes and evening curfew. The 2,000-pound bell served as a sound of victory for many years until a crack was found within. The Talons dedicated the original bell to the university in 1982, and it was placed in the University Union across from the One O'Clock Lounge. Though smaller, the bell's successor can be heard at any home football game ringing with pride.

Official Class Ring - Unique to North Texas, the official ring portrays our Eagle mascot, university seal and the McConnell Tower. The two clock faces show different times--one o'clock for the internationally recognized One O'Clock Lab Band, and seven o'clock noting the 1892 curfew for students of Texas Normal College and Teacher Training Institute.

Mean Green Village - Various groups set up tents near Fouts Field before home football games. Meals are available at this popular social event, which is one of the university's newest traditions.