On a bright and spirited afternoon, students, families and members of the university community gathered once again for a powerful and symbolic tradition: the university’s second annual Ring Ceremony.
Held at the Sorensen Fountain — just steps from the John C. Stockwell Administration Building, where the inaugural event made history during the fall 2024 semester — the ceremony honored students receiving the official USC Upstate class ring. The ring stands as a tangible symbol of perseverance, pride and connection to the Spartan family.
This year’s event built on the momentum of the university’s newest tradition, offering another opportunity to unite past, present and future generations of Spartans. As each student was called forward to receive their ring, cheers from families and classmates filled the air — reinforcing the close-knit, supportive community that defines USC Upstate.
Before the rings were presented, Chancellor Bennie Harris reflected on the significance of the moment. “Your class ring represents the countless hours you’ve spent studying, questioning, creating and growing,” he said. “It’s a shared symbol — one that connects you to fellow alumni across the country and around the world. As you receive your ring today, I hope you’ll reflect on the path that brought you here and the potential you hold.”
Student Government Association Vice President Zachary McQueen shared insight into the ceremony’s evolving traditions. “At Upstate, we begin new traditions all the time — like this ring ceremony. Rings that are made just for us. Rings that hold our seal,” he said. “While the fountain dip symbolizes your bond with Upstate, the true value lies deeper — it captures late nights, laughter across the quad, lasting friendships and the mentors who encouraged you to reach higher.”
One of the most memorable moments came during that iconic dip, when students gathered in a circle and lowered their ringed hands into the water. That unified gesture marked their official welcome into a legacy that transcends graduation — a lifetime bond with their alma mater. As part of the tradition, students wear the ring with the shield facing themselves until graduation, when it is turned outward to face the world.
Vice Chancellor for University Advancement RJ Gimbl brought the ceremony full circle. “Our community is stronger because of the people in it — students, families, alumni and supporters,” he said. “This ring is a symbol of belonging and of the values that make USC Upstate a place like no other.”
Now firmly rooted in university tradition, the Ring Ceremony stands as a heartfelt tribute to student achievement and university pride — an annual celebration that will continue to unite Spartans for generations to come.
More photos from the ceremony can be found on our Flickr album.