On Campus: UB EMOJI

UB Emoji

A look back on our recent past with a smile, a wink or a whatevs

Washington Post march madness mascot icons.

Illustrations by Julia Heffernan

Tweet our bull

Emoji madness and March Madness collided this year, when The Washington Post created a cheeky collection of college mascot icons (some pictured above) as a free download during the NCAA tournament. From warriors to boilermakers, bulls to badgers, each mascot got a cute mug to text around. Not that we’re biased, but we thought Victor was particularly adorable.

Recycle that robe

For the sixth year, UB graduation robes will make more than just a fashion statement (ahem)—they’ll make good potting soil, too. Commencement-wear has gone green, with compostable packaging and fabrics made from renewable fibers. While a few students grumble about the cost of a “throwaway” robe (prices range from $83 to $94), officials are pleased to offer a new way to reduce waste. UB’s composting bin must turn a bright blue this time of year.

Smarty pants

Finally, clean socks are just a click away. Using a Star-Trekian-sounding app called CBORD, UB students can reserve a washer or dryer in the Fargo and Wilkeson quads. Students log in with a special ID on their smartphone or computer, and can check the status of each machine in the building. While certainly more efficient, the new system may sadly portend an end to the age-old tradition of flirting while waiting for clothes to dry.

Gone batty

Seems the North Campus may have a bat problem. This spring, University Police responded to several calls about bats infiltrating campus spaces. An exterminator was dispatched to remove one seen in O’Brian Hall. As for one spotted in Porter Quad, the report said, “Residents were advised to call UPD should it come out from the radiator.” We’re guessing students steered clear of the radiator.

Amy Hopkins (MD '89 PhD '95)

Regarding "Gone batty" [Summer 2015], bats occasionally enter human space, but they mean no harm.  I hope that the "exterminator" called to remove one in O'Brien Hall was actually a licensed Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator who carefully and humanely removed the bat and released it outside.  Our nation's bats have been suffering devastating losses from White Nose Syndrome, and without bats, our agriculture would collapse.  Next time you see a bat, appreciate the beauty of our only flying mammal and please help it to thrive