Florida State University is taking on a new approach to preserve the iconic Westcott Fountain on campus — one that includes a champagne koozie and water-soluble confetti.
Through the FSU Student Affairs’ partnership with Tallahassee’s Madison Social and Township — both of which are located in College Town — a “Save the Fountain” campaign was launched Monday, announcing that FSU students turning 21 or older can win a birthday gift that helps prevent injuries and damage to the Westcott structure.
“As you celebrate accomplishments and milestones, please remember to keep your fellow Seminoles and our beloved fountain safe,” FSU President Richard McCullough said in a campaign video released Monday.
Back story:Florida State University tells students: Stop climbing Westcott Fountain
It’s become a well-known FSU tradition for students to get thrown into the fountain at midnight on their 21st birthday, with some of them climbing to the top to celebrate the moment.
Through the initiative, FSU is urging students not to climb the fountain in order to preserve the historic landmark and student’s safety.
The campaign’s gift is a koozie to prevent glass bottles from breaking in the fountain and water soluble confetti, which dissolves when wet.
In addition, each gift includes tips on how to celebrate safely, a card from FSU’s Vice President for Student Affairs Amy Hecht, a Westcott Fountain sticker and a $10 voucher to be used at either Madison Social or Township.
“We certainly understand the impact the fountain has on thousands of Noles,” For The Table Hospitality Owner Matt Thompson told the Tallahassee Democrat.
For The Table Hospitality — Tallahassee’s largest hospitality company — created food and beverage brands such as Madison Social, Township, Centrale, Social Catering & Events and Charlie Park.
“When we were first contacted, it was a no brainer,” said Thompson, an FSU alumnus. “Any part we can have in making sure the fountain remains part of tradition is welcomed by our brands.”
Madison Social and Township agreed to buy the koozies to help promote the campaign, according to For The Table Hospitality Marketing Director Eric Pounders, who says the university’s Student Affairs has been working on the initiative for over a year.
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Prior to the campaign launch, promotional videos were posted on the university’s social media platforms featuring speakers such as Hecht, well-known FSU staff member Eva Killings and FSU Head Football Coach Mike Norvell.
“When I talk about our climb, I’m not talking about everything,” Norvell said in the campaign video referring to the university’s football team’s success. “Don’t climb on the fountain. Please stay out, please stay safe.”
The fountain — which was installed in 1917 — has often been closed due to broken glass in the water as well as confetti and glitter that clog the pipes, which has led to the need for repairs.
In spring 2022, the fountain was shut down after the university saw an increase in behavior that included the “extremely dangerous activity of climbing the fountain,” according to Hecht.
“The Westcott Fountain has been one of Florida State University’s most beloved gems,” Hecht stated in the campaign video. “We want to make sure it’s here for years to come.”
As FSU Homecoming is set to take place from Oct. 16 to Oct. 21, fountain gatherings will not be impacted besides the prohibition of climbing the structure, according to an FSU spokesperson.
To pick up a gift package, students can stop by the Student Union building on campus, Madison Social at 705 S. Woodward Ave., or Township at 619 S. Woodward Ave., any time during the month of their birthday.
Contact Tarah Jean at tjean@tallahassee.com or follow her on twitter @tarahjean_.
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