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Mining Minds: Special Lighting Celebrates Homecoming, Anniversary of First Day of School

Last Updated on September 27, 2018 at 3:00 PM

Originally published September 27, 2018

By Christina Rodriguez

UTEP Communications

The “Mining Minds” pickaxe sculpture at UTEP’s University Avenue roundabout will be illuminated in blue and orange beginning Friday, Sept. 28, through Saturday, Oct. 6, in honor of two special occasions at The University of Texas at El Paso.

UTEP's iconic 'Mining Minds' sculpture is illuminated in orange and blue on special occasions, such as Homecoming Week, major milestones and to celebrate special accomplishments.
UTEP's iconic "Mining Minds" sculpture is illuminated in orange and blue on special occasions, such as Homecoming Week, major milestones and to celebrate special accomplishments. Photo: Laura Trejo/UTEP Communications

The special lighting celebrates the University’s 2018 Homecoming festivities, a tradition that began in 1929. This year’s Homecoming celebration will pay homage to melodious sensations of the stage and screen with the student-selected theme – musicals – incorporated throughout the week’s activities meant to welcome alumni and friends back to campus, engage students and celebrate Miner pride. For more information on Homecoming events, visit www.utep.edu/homecoming.

The special lighting also commemorates the first day of school 104 years ago, on Sept. 28, 1914. That day, the first 27 students started classes at the State School of Mines and Metallurgy, now UTEP.

“Mining Minds” is an iconic piece of public art installed in 2010 to enhance the UTEP campus. At night, orange lights illuminate the steel structure while light from LEDs emanate from the perforated “ones” and “zeroes” at each end of the pick.

On special occasions, including historic dates, major annual milestones and to celebrate special accomplishments, the pick is illuminated in blue and orange.