MinerAlert
Texas Western Gold Rush is an evening filled with Miner pride for all UTEP students. Nestled in the heart of campus, this welcome event showcases student talent, storytelling, and high energy entertainment. There’s no better way to kick off the fall semester!
"The Eyes of Texas are Upon You" was adopted in 1920 when the song had been "declared the school anthem for the University of Texas (Austin)." UTEP's fight song, "Miners Fight," also was an offshoot from Austin. In the late 1980s, and with singer Marty Robbins' blessing, the song was rewritten with the melody "El Paso."
Minerpalooza is one of UTEP’s most celebrated traditions. The event launches the academic school year with live entertainment, carnival-style games, and delicious food. Come meet UTEP’s student organizations and athletes, plus enjoy special performances by UTEP’s Cheer Team, Dance Team, and Paydirt Pete! This will be an experience to remember…you won’t want to miss it.
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The first so-called mascot was a student dressed as a prospector leading a burro. The name Paydirt Pete originated from a 1974 contest to give a name to the mascot. It was selected from more than 500 entries. The first Paydirt Pete mascot started as a lovable “little ol' Miner” in 1980. Since, Paydirt Pete has undergone several incarnations to become the tougher, meaner-looking mascot of today.
Paydirt Pete, our fun-loving Miner, has become a symbol of UTEP pride, embodying the essence of our university's values. UTEP is electric as the campus and community gears up to celebrate the birthday of our beloved mascot, Paydirt Pete. Each year, this special occasion coincides with Homecoming, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with school spirit and camaraderie. His birthday celebration is more than just a party; it's a testament to the unity and pride that defines our campus.
The UTEP Alumni Association Top Ten Senior Selection Committee selects the honorees after reviewing all completed portfolios. Yearly, the committee strives to select students who have met all award requirements and demonstrated high ideals both in and outside the classroom as well as in the local community.
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Miners use the two-digit salute, utilizing the pinkie and the thumb, to show their passion for UTEP. The proper motion is a downward spiking gesture, starting by the ear and moving the arm downward as if the pick is striking the ground. The pickaxe is the longest-lived icon in UTEP’s history, tracing back to the school’s first unofficial seal in 1919.
The oldest student tradition, first reported in 1920, took place to initiate engineers and geologists into the Order of St. Patrick, the patron saint of engineers. It continues today in a more philanthropic manner with ceremonies that include collecting food for the Rescue Mission, cleaning the campus arroyo plants, hosting the TCM Picnic and whitewashing the “M” on the mountain overlooking Glory Field.
The Senior Ring was unveiled in 2003 and features symbols unique to the University: Bhutanese architecture, the “M” on the Mountain and Paydirt Pete. Eligible students and alumni receive them at the Official Ring Ceremony during commencement-week festivities.
What began as an architectural inspiration has developed into a close bond of goodwill and peace between UTEP and the Kingdom of Bhutan. “Bhutan Days” has become a regular celebration that brings Bhutanese archers, artists, dancers and musicians to the UTEP campus, and honors Bhutanese students – from freshmen to Ph.D. candidates – pursuing their studies at UTEP.
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