A life-sized bronze likeness of Stomper sitting on an 8-foot bench will take permanent residence in the Centennial Student Union on Thursday, Sept. 28 during the unveiling of the newest landmark on campus.
The sculpture entitled “Sittin’ with Stomper” and an accompanying bronze plaque will be revealed during a brief noon ceremony on Sept. 28 that includes President Edward Inch, Student Government President Sierra Roiger, and the Maverick Machine. The sculpture is located on the CSU Main Level between CSU 123 and the Campus Hub.
The ceremony concludes with attendees led onto the campus mall by the Maverick Machine for commemorative cake. Participants may also win a limited-edition commemorative giveaway designed especially for the dedication.
The unveiling as the University enters Homecoming Week 2023 represents years of anticipation for a campus point of pride in the CSU.
“This is something that has been on the CSU bucket list for some time,” said Lenny Koupal, CSU Communications Coordinator and master of ceremonies for the unveiling. “We envision creating a tradition of endless photos capturing Maverick spirit. Stomper will now be waiting in the CSU for future generations gathering during Welcome Week, Homecoming, Family Weekend, Graduation, campus visits or personal selfies.”
Commissioned by the CSU with the support of the Student Government and the Student Union Board, actual planning for the half-ton statue began in Spring 2022. A summer Request for Proposal drew interested firms from Colorado to Delaware before the contract was awarded to Brodin Studios of Kimball, Minn.
The closeness of the studio and the sharp details created through Brodin’s use of 3-D printers in molding the statue were among the reasons for selecting the Minnesota firm.
Koupal said the design for the sculpture has always envisioned Stomper seated on a bench.
“We want it to be interactive and engaging–not on a pedestal to simply look at,” Koupal said. “We want people to join Stomper. Sit with Stomper. Gather around Stomper. Share the spirit of Stomper that people have come to love,” Koupal said.
Koupal said the decision to put Stomper in a hockey sweater rose from the Mavericks’ Division I play in both men’s and women’s hockey.
“We want a gender-neutral reflection of our highest level of competition, not just in athletics, but all aspects of the Minnesota State Mankato experience,” Koupal said.
Following the unveiling, an Instagram photo contest using #sittinwithstomper will continue through Homecoming Week. Prizes will be offered for “Sittin’ with Stomper” selfies judged most creative.
