Traditions unite our diverse community at Seattle University. They establish a sense of belonging, uplift our Ignatian values and Redhawk spirit, and celebrate who we are and what we strive to be together.
Learn more about Seattle University's annual events, traditions, history, and other fun things we do to show we're a proud campus community.
The seal is the university’s formal emblem representing our traditions of academic excellence, Jesuit education, and the dynamic opportunities afforded by our location.
Seattle University has had a formal seal for more than a century. During this time the seal has evolved through three changes. Each change has increased the impact and clarity of the symbolism of the seal. The seal has also changed to reflect the evolution of the university from Seattle College to Seattle University. The origin of the original seal is not known, but there is some indication that it was designed by the late James Brogan, SJ, pastor of St. Joseph’s Church. Father Brogan was instrumental in designing the seal of Gonzaga University as well. Sometime before 1956 the seal was refined by Neil Meany, SJ. The current refinement of the university seal was designed by David Balzer, Seattle University’s creative director, and formally approved by Seattle University President Stephen V. Sundborg, SJ, in July 2003. The current seal was updated to reinforce the Jesuit tradition of Seattle University and to recognize the university’s location in the city of Seattle and the Northwest.
Rudy the Redhawk is the official Seattle University mascot! You can find him at athletic games, hanging out in the Student Center, or just walking to his next class. He's never afraid to take a photo with you so feel free to ask.
How to do a hawks up:
Do this when during free throws at a basketball game, in photos with other SU students, and when you're feeling particularly spirited about Seattle U!
Ring in your time at SU during Orientation and signal your future success!
Write your name into SU history by signing your entering year banner
Come and take your class photo - don't forget to put your hawks up!
Let's give a cheer for Seattle, Ol' Seattle U
Show them the fight of the Red & White
They will win for you
Fight, Fight, Fight
Over the foes we're victorious and victory is our cheer
So let's give a cheer
For the whole gang is here
To cheer you, Seattle U!
S-E-A-T-T-L-E FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT
S-E-A-T-T-L-E FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT
Over the foes we're victorious and victory is our cheer
So let's give a cheer for the whole gang is here to cheer you, Seattle U.
GO REDHAWKS!
Need to sing along with our students? Check out this video.