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A large orange WP monument, which was installed on the Speert Green lawn this summer, places one of the University’s iconic logos at the heart of the main campus.
Located in front of Grant Hall, the new sculpture, known as the WP spirit rock, is mounted on a platform designed to commemorate an historic rock that was part of traditions on campus for decades. The spirit rock is meant to serve as a natural gathering spot for the campus community. And, since the beginning of the fall 2024 semester, it has quickly become a popular backdrop for photos.
“This large new WP has already become a focal point on campus and—importantly for current students, campus tours, and alumni visits—an instant backdrop for selfie highlights of their campus experience,” says President Richard Helldobler. “The spirit rock will build a new campus tradition as a gathering place that produces a feeling of campus pride and spirit. This will also enhance both the recruitment process and our alumni engagement efforts. It is yet another expression of William Paterson’s role as a ‘Powerhouse of Progress.’”
The WP has become an iconic signature for William Paterson University since its launch in 2011, deployed on magnets, pins, athletic uniforms, t-shirts, and numerous other items. This 6.5-foot rendering of the WP sits on a large limestone-faced platform that celebrates a rock that was located nearby at the center of the campus for more than 50 years. The rock was a favorite gathering place for students and alumni and the phrase, “I’ll meet you at the Rock,” is warmly remembered by many of alumni, and documented on a plague on the platform.
The project was supported in part by a generous gift provided specifically for campus beautification from the estate of the late Edward Skurna ’61, MA ’69, a member of the William Paterson Heritage Society. It will be formally dedicated as part of the University’s Homecoming and Family Day festivities on Saturday, November 9.
