Capturing the True Blue magic of UB's most beloved spaces

“Say you’re at UB without saying you’re at UB.” It’s the kind of challenge that sometimes comes across social media.

A photo on the grand back staircase of the Center for the Arts would do it. Or one at Kanazawa Island, with the distinctive, block-like Ellicott Complex in the background. Or one in the stately wood-paneled reading room on the second floor of Abbott Hall. Or any of the dozens of iconic spots across UB’s three campuses that have appeared again and again in Instagram accounts, yearbooks and family photo albums.

Now, the True Blue campaign is inviting the campus community to share their pics of the spots they love the most in an effort to showcase the power of place at UB. A new interactive map provides a helpful guide by pinpointing more than 40 locations, with descriptions, GPS coordinates, photo submission links and more.

At three locations, permanent True Blue Photo Spot stands have been installed to assist folks in getting the perfect shot.

One of the new stands can be found at the famously picturesque Baird Point. The towering columns were salvaged from the Federal Reserve Bank building in downtown Buffalo when it was demolished in the 1950s. They’ve stood at their spot overlooking Lake LaSalle since the late 1970s, drawing countless visitors to come and soak up the peaceful vibe. 

“I think [it’s] one location every student knows and loves,” said Ella Couchman, a junior majoring in media study. “I really enjoy seeing the lake when it’s covered in snow or glistening under the sun.” As a student assistant for University Communications’ social media team, she sees a lot of campus photos. Background is important, she said, but the best ones highlight bonds between friends or family. “I love seeing students sitting on the pillars, hanging out with their friends as they look out onto the lake.”

Another stand can be found at Coventry Circle near the Center for the Arts and Alumni Arena, positioned to capture the bronze bison statue that’s been a favored landmark since it roamed to campus in 1996. A replica of the statue that once graced the concourse of Buffalo’s long-defunct Central Terminal, UB’s bison was unveiled at the university’s 150th celebration and presciently envisioned by UB officials at the time as “a place where students will pose for pictures with their parents on commencement weekend, or propose to each other, or just touch for luck.”

South Campus has a stand too, outside of Hayes Hall. The soaring clock tower, with its four giant bells located 120 feet above the ground, makes it one of UB’s most recognizable buildings. Set behind sloping lawns and ornamental trees, the home of the School of Architecture and Planning is a true campus icon — as well as a local historic landmark.

Additional stands around UB’s three campuses may be installed next year.

Couchman sees no shortage of great photo opportunities on campus — including two of her personal favorites.

“My friend Mary is part of the UB marching band, and one of my highlights since being back on campus was taking pictures while they played during the football games at UB stadium. I also love seeing the sunrise at the top of the hill at Kunz Stadium. It is absolutely stunning.”

Editor’s note: Share your own campus photo to be featured in the True Blue photo gallery and receive a commemorative True Blue pin.