Panther Sculpture

The 1st Panther Sculpture on Campus

The UNI Memorial Garden has an exciting new addition - the first panther sculpture on the UNI campus given by the Classes of 2000, 2001, and 2006. The idea for the panther sculpture originated from the 2006 Senior Challenge Committee. They felt that it was the perfect class gift and meaningful addition to the Memorial Garden. The committee consisted of Sachi Iwashita, Nancy Christensen, Carrie Olson, Grant Erwin, Nick McFadden, Colby Brelsford and Tarek Fahmy. The 2006 Senior Challenge raised almost $8,000. Combined with the senior class gifts from the Classes of 2000 and 2001, the panther sculpture became a reality. "My favorite thing about the Senior Challenge was working everyday knowing that we were doing something that will last on UNI's campus for centuries to come," said Sachi Iwashita, chair of the 2006 Senior Challenge.

The panther sculpture was designed and modeled by UNI studio arts major, Duke Oursler. Duke formed the sculpture from styrofoam and clay on campus and then sent the mold to Illinois Art Casting in Ogden, Illinois, to receive its metallic bronze treatment. "I tried to capture a very strong, aggressive animal," said Duke. "There is a lot of detail - you'll see the fur, teeth and even the pads of the panther's paws."

The sculpture is located in the center of the commemorative Prexy's Pond reflecting pool, which was a senior class gift from the Class of 1993. "It's a great honor to create a piece of art for UNI that will be here for many years. I think the sculpture is a place of panther pride for everyone involved with the university," said Duke.

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