UB Marks itself on the Map

At the beginning of each new
fall semester there are often a
few cosmetic changes that greet
students upon return from their long
summer break. Last year it was the
removal of the dilapidated sidewalks
surrounding the ped mall. Grass seed
was strewn in the place of concrete
and we are just now seeing the turf fill
in. This year the change is apparent
from miles around and is especially
prominent at night. The University
now announces its presence with the
help of two giant purple and white
“UB” signs.
When the subject of the signs was
brought up in Twisted Caf(student
run caf in the basement of John J.
Cox Student Center) a number of
students felt that the money spent
on the signs could have been better
allocated. Ben Manifold (Senior,
Psychology) explained the sentiment:
“I would have preferred a faster
[internet] connection or a lower [tuition] bill.” Another student Greg
Matisoff (Senior, Illustration) felt
more strongly that, “.it is a waste
of money.” However a number of students felt that the signs represent
some of the positive changes they see
around campus. One female student
said, “I like it.” Another student,
Nik Cook(Senior, Literature and
Civilization) felt that, “working on
the image is important.”
The signs are illuminated by light
emitting diodes which require very
little energy when compared to
traditional neon or electric lights. One
of the signs is perched atop Walstrom
Library; home to the Library as
well as most of the administrative
offices of the University including
admissions, residential life, human
resources and the IDEAL program.
The sign atop Walstrom is positioned
facing interstate 95 and route 8
and can be seen from most of the
Bridgeport exits. The other sign
was affixed to Warner Hall; home to
resident students, the Naturopathic,
Acupuncture and Chiropractic Clinics
as well as Student Health Services.
The sign on Warner faces Long Island Sound and can be seen
by ferries carrying commuters to and from Long Island, NY.
No word as to whether or not the sign can actually be seen
from Long Island.