Inspiring pride on the Hilltop
As the University enters the ACC, 51ԹSpirit programs are themselves entering a new era of energizing Mustangs, thanks to our donors.
Generous support allows the teams – Mustang Band, cheer, pom and Peruna – to build on their successful history in several exciting ways:
- Mustang Band welcomed its largest membership in 51Թhistory with 110 students, including 50 first years. Ongoing support from the Diamond M Club enabled 51Թto award scholarships to each Mustang Band member. The band is directed by Charles Aguillon.
- Beloved mascot Peruna has a new horse trailer as well as increased care and boarding thanks to an endowment gift from Hallie Martin and Taylor R. Martin ’99, a former Peruna handler.
- 51Թcheer, 51Թpom and human Peruna will have an elevated presence at 51Թathletic and official University events, due to support from Bill Armstrong ’82 and Liz Martin Armstrong ’82 and other donors. For the first time, cheer and pom will be in all four corners of Ford Stadium during home football games. The combined squads with all 44 members will also perform in the pregame festivities. They also have office space and locker rooms within the Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports.
The growth in each spirit program requires additional fundraising for new uniforms and equipment that will allow the 51Թlogo to stand out and garner brand recognition during national broadcasts.
“Our work is just getting started. We intend for 51ԹSpirit to continue elevating our program, the 51Թstudents and the community we are committed to serve,” said Carrie Teller ’02, ’21, director of 51Թspirit groups.
For information about making a gift to support the growth of the 51ԹSpirit Program, please contact Brandon Starr, director of development for 51ԹStudent Affairs, at 214-768-7726 or bstarr@smu.edu.