Connecting Alumni to Students created the UNI Traditions Challenge so University of Northern Iowa students could create their own “yearbook.”
The Traditions Challenge Amazing Race consisted of multiple stops where students demonstrated their knowledge of UNI. At each stop, they completed activities while taking pictures for their Traditions Challenge books.
All this work does come with a reward. When students complete 25 challenges, they receive a Tradition Challenge Coin to wear at graduation. After 45 challenges, they receive the lapel pin and a medallion to wear at commencement.
While everybody was gearing up for the race, the UNI Psychology Club was waiting in full costume. Dressed in suit jackets, ties and glasses, the UNI Psych Club team hoped to have a chance at best dressed during the awards ceremony.
“Watching the students get involved in ways they wouldn’t have otherwise is really cool,” said Emily West, CATS member.
This year’s stops included the Campanile, Panther Village, West Gym, Maucker Union and more. Some activities included a beanbag toss, a taste test and singing the UNI fight song.
“I love always seeing the costumes, and once everyone gets done, seeing their favorite parts of the Traditions Challenge,” said Sarah Crim, vice president of traditions for CATS.
The winners were announced once all the teams finished. In third place was team Sig Ep French Toast Mafia. In second came International Panther Team 1 and first place was SAA#tigerblood. The UNI Psych Club team won best dressed and the Pink Ladies #2 won the most spirited award.
“The best part was encouraging each other and staying together, encouraging other teams,” said Sarah Ormsby member SAA#tigerblood.
