Fun Fact Fiesta Logo

Discover the Top 7 Amazing Fun Facts About Sacramento State University You Never Knew!

illustration of sacramento-state-university
Dive into the world of Sacramento State University, where quirky tidbits and fascinating stories abound - trust us, you'll graduate with more than just a degree in trivia!

1. Herky the Hornet: Antler Rejector

Once upon a time in the land of Elk Rejection, where antlered creatures were deemed too tame for educational inspiration: Sacramento State University introduced their Hornet mascot, Herky, on December 5, 1947. The origin of "Herky" remains shrouded in mystery, but this once-gentle bug has evolved into a buff, green and gold symbol of school spirit, adored by students and feared by antler enthusiasts.
Source => statehornet.com

2. Arboretum: Around-the-World Tree Tour

If you ever feel like taking a trip around the world without leaving campus, just pine for the trees at Sacramento State University: The campus is home to a stunning Arboretum showcasing an array of trees, shrubs, and plants from various continents, including rare wonders like the xxx tree from Australia, and different conifer species, such as Redwoods, Ponderosas, and Jeffrey Pines, hailing from America, Europe, and Asia.
Source => csus.edu

3. Bike Friendly Campus: Wheelie Good Uni

Did you hear about the university where students and staff are wheely good at getting around? They're on a roll when it comes to two-wheeled transportation: Sacramento State has been awarded the silver Bicycle Friendly University designation by the League of American Bicyclists, thanks to amenities like secure bike lockups, dedicated bike lanes, and an on-campus Peak Adventures bike shop. In a world full of pedal-powered possibilities, this campus makes sure everyone can join the chain-gang and ride safely to their heart's content!
Source => csus.edu

4. Placer Center: Magical Campus Expansion

In a plot twist that would make even J.K. Rowling jealous, Sacramento State University is turning the tables on its space-constrained quagmire by expanding into the enchanted lands of unincorporated Placer County: The generous entrepreneur and philanthropist Eli Broad has waved his magic philanthropic wand, presenting the university with a 300-acre gift of land for Sacramento State Placer Center. This new academic wonderland will initially host 500 full-time students and may one day transfigure into a full-service university, ending the tragic tale of turning away thousands of students annually due to lack of space.
Source => csus.edu

Carlsen Center: Willy Wonka's Startup Factory

5. Carlsen Center: Willy Wonka's Startup Factory

Ever heard of a "startup factory"? No, we're not talking about Willy Wonka's latest wacky invention: Sacramento State University houses the Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a bustling hub offering workshops, mentorships, and a startup accelerator program to help transform ambitious dreams into booming businesses.
Source => csus.edu

6. Eco-Ranking: Captain Planet Approved

If Captain Planet and his Planeteers were handing out college diplomas, they'd be proud to stamp the seal of approval on Sacramento State University grads: the university ranks 56th in Sierra's Cool Schools for the U.S, garnering accolades for conservation efforts in energy, waste, and water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainable transportation through an innovative parking structure.
Source => csus.edu

7. Aquatic Center: Pirate Academy for All Ages

Yo ho ho and a bottle of iced tea: Sacramento State University's Aquatic Center transforms aspiring pirates and landlubbers alike into veritable sea captains with sailing courses on three different types of boats – Zest, Quest, and Keelboat. Sailing theory, boating safety, and nautical know-how such as tacking, jibing, sail trim, and docking are taught, and each successful graduate receives a free two-hour rental credit to furlough their newly-acquired expertise. With varying physical requirements and age restrictions for each boat, even young sailors aged 12 can hit the high seas with a parental first mate, while a minimum age of 16 (15 with a parent) is required to commandeer the Keelboat. Pricing fluctuates according to university affiliation, and budding sailors should be prepared to get their sea legs – and everything else – wet!
Source => sacstateaquaticcenter.com

Related Fun Facts