New Block A at USU draft plans being reviewed
In light of last week’s True Aggie Night centennial, the USU Student Alumni Association announced plans for a new Block A structure. The new structure will be innovative, updated and ADA accessible.
“We want to do it right, we want to make it last,” said Oakman Kennedy, Utah State University’s 2015-16 Student Alumni Association president. “We don’t want to rush through it or anything like that.”
Kennedy said the current Block A has been through many years of events. The structure was erected in 1916, though every few years the block is redone. The current Block A has stood for 10 years.
“Right now, you have the block A and it’s just kind of there,” Kennedy said. “Unless you’re there at midnight, it’s not necessarily the life of campus.”
Donations for the project came in part for the 2014 graduating class as well as other outside donations. Kennedy said the completion date for the new Block A is a big question on everyone’s mind. The Block A was anticipated to be complete by next year’s Homecoming, but the finishing date may be pushed back.
“I love the idea of taking the Block A into the next century,” said USUSA’s 2016-17 Public Relations and Marketing Director Brenna Kelly. “Where before there were issues with ADA compliance, anyone can become a True Aggie on the new Block A. There was a lot of thought put into the designs. The new Block A will be respectful of the past, but also fresh and updated.”
Kennedy said the new Block A will be in the same location and will look similar to the old Block A from the front and side angles. The design will continue to be a photogenic spot for Aggies while being safer and more accessible for all students.
“The Block A and True Aggie Night are such a cherished traditions. I’m excited for Aggies to use it and create memories there,” Kelly said.
According to the USU Visual Identity Program guide, the Block A logo is Utah State University’s most enduring letter, expressing a strong and historic symbol associated with the culture of USU.
“It’s a lot bigger than just the Block A,” Kennedy said. “It’s really about taking care of the Aggie family and making sure that what we have is lasting.”
Kennedy said he knows there will be some people who do not agree with the decision to renovate the Block A.
“I think students will like the change. At first, people might be concerned about getting rid of the old Block A, but it will stay on campus at a different location,” Kelly said.
The changes are only for improvement, the student leaders all agree.
“We’re not trying to ruin it,” Kennedy said. “We really are trying to take everybody’s feedback and make the best decision going forward for all of campus and bring it into the next 100 years.”
— ashley.ruth.stilson@aggiemail.usu.edu