Pieces From Our Past

The Groundbreaker This ceremonial shovel was first used March 19, 1967, for the groundbreaking of FTU, then at UCF’s 25th anniversary celebration and the 2007 College of Medicine’s groundbreaking.

Goodwill Wall Alumni Plaza’s wall is able to house up to 1,000 personalized bricks. Built in 1989 in front of Millican Hall, it’s a showcase area for those alumni who have donated $1,000 or more to the Alumni Trust Fund.

First Commencement Keepsakes from the 1970 commencement ceremony, where the auditorium was filled to capacity — much like today. Items courtesy of Lois M. Jackson, ’70

Fine Dining President Millican and his wife, Frances, enjoyed entertaining guests, and this coffee cup and saucer were in frequent use.

Vulture Vinnie Named in the earliest days of the university, Vinnie the Vulture lived for many years near the Student Center. This taxidermy serves as a reminder of the ever-present vultures that circled the newly cleared land on campus.

Emblem of Honor In September 1968, Dr. Millican was presented with the FTU President’s Medallion, which bears the university’s seal.

Astro-Orange Designed by Norman Van Meter, the Citronaut appeared on the cover of FTU’s first student handbook.

Temporary Title The first edition of FTU’s student newspaper — briefly called F.T.U.??? — was published Oct. 7, 1968. A naming contest took place soon afterward, and proposals included Tech News and Views, Pegasus and FTU Star. The winning name? FuTUre.

Presidential Portrait This painting of President Colbourn was created by artist B. Tiffany in 1992.

Bronze Laurel Founding President Charles Millican’s likeness was captured in bronze in this bust sculpted by J.V. Spatafora in 1974.