This year, a big need of the university is to begin restoring one of our iconic art pieces on campus – “The Gift.” The fountain was donated to the University of Mobile in April of 1992 and the sculpture within was created by Mobile artist, Casey Downing Jr. as part of Downing’s Sentinel Series. Downing’s other pieces in the series can be found all around the city of Mobile.

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The bricks lining the walkway surrounding the fountain are etched with the names of alumni, faculty, staff, trustees, and administrators, who made contributions to install the fountain. Some of the area's most influential benefactors are included among the listing.

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“The Gift” has had many affectionate nicknames over time such as “the leaking clothespin,”  and it has even been the center of some of UM’s best pranks. But to most, the fountain has become an iconic landmark and meaningful part of our campus landscape.

The 32-year-old fountain is now showing its age and needs some T.L.C.

 

The 2023 and 2024 Senior Class Gift will go toward the repair and renovation of the fountain. We hope to begin that project within the next year. Progress of the project depends solely on the funds raised. The graduating class of 2023 and of 2024 will have a large brick displayed at the fountain in appreciation of their gift to make the renovation happen. Individuals from the class of '23 or '24 who make a gift of at least $50 will have a personalized brick installed along the walkway surrounding the fountain.

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Thank you in advance for continuing the legacy of University of Mobile graduates!