User:Jeffsalomon/Gator Wrap Ring

The Gator Wrap Ring is the University of Florida's class ring designed in the late 1930's by then Student Body President Stephen C. O'Connell (who later became a justice on the Florida Supreme Court, the sixth president of the University of Florida, and the namesake for the O'Connell Center). The ring has remained unchanged since its original design.

Design
The distinct design of the Gator Wrap Ring differs from many other class rings from other academic institutions by featuring an alligator (or gator) with gaping jaws on either side of the ring's shank. The ring's right shank features the graduation year of the ring's owner between the alligator's teeth, while the left shank features the degree bestowed upon the owner similarly situated. The bezel displays "University of Florida" and "1853" (the year the University of Florida was established). Traditionally, the bezel contains a blue stone, one of the official colors of the University of Florida. The stone may be faceted or smooth, the latter allowing for some customization of the ring by accepting the application of a symbol, such as an interlocking UF or other symbol. .

A variation of the Gator Wrap Ring has been created as a gift for Bull Gator Level donors to Gator Boosters, Inc. Differences include the left shank featuring "UF", the bezel displaying "Bull Gator", and a diamond set on the blue stone.

Significance
University of Florida is one of the largest universities in the United States. Alumni, (also known as Gators) are often proud graduates of the university, staunch supporters of the Gators, and are often seen all over the world sporting the university's signature orange and blue. Supporters of the University of Florida will often greet strangers showing their support for the university by shouting "go gators!"

It is said that "Gators understand that attending the university of Florida is more than just going to school ... it is a way of life." The Gator Wrap Ring symbolizes "a special bond with fellow Gators", and that the wearer is a Gator, which allows Gators to recognize each other when not wearing orange and blue. "The Gator Wrap is unique, special and distinguishable; just like a Florida Gator." The University of Florida Alumni Association says about the Gator Wrap Ring, "This is your heritage. Wear it well."

Students are eligible to receive a Gator Wrap ring after completing 60 credit hours at the University of Florida. When the ring is worn, it should be worn with the alligators facing the wearer prior to graduation, and facing away from the wearer upon graduating. President O'Connell has been quoted as saying that for the students who wear the ring he designed at their graduations, he "considered it a 'debt of gratitude to receive a place at your side as a graduate of the University of Florida.'"

Ring Ceremony
In 2007, the University of Florida began a new tradition of bestowing the Gator Wrap Ring on recipients at a ring ceremony on April 12th. . During the ceremony, attendees learn about the ring's history by Cynthia O'Connell, the widow of President O'Connell. An explanation of the ring's symbolism is given to the students. They are advised that wearing the ring makes them emissaries for the University of Florida, and they recite and sign a pledge promising they will not dishonor their alma mater as they are called forward to receive their rings.

In a continuation of the ceremony, at commencement, students are asked to symbolically turn the ring around to face the world, thereby displaying alumni status.