‘Show Us Your Red Friday’ builds campus spirit at Lamar University

Every Friday at Lamar University, students are encouraged to show their Cardinal pride by wearing red as part of the "Show Us Your Red" tradition. The initiative, organized by the Center for Career and Professional Development, has become a weekly staple on campus and at athletic events.

The program began two years ago when staff noticed students often wearing gear from other universities. To change that, the center began distributing free Lamar-branded items such as T-shirts, cowbells, megaphones, clear backpacks and crossbody bags.

"Every Friday, students 'show red,' and the tradition has really grown," Nicole Kyles-Burton, career consultant for the Center for Career and Professional Development said. "For us, it's more than just wearing a color, it's part of the lifeblood of our campus. Students attending games and encouraging our athletes bring energy and support that keeps our Cardinal community strong."

Students who wear red on home football game days can stop by the Setzer Student Center to pick up free spirit items before the game. On away game days, students can visit the Center for Career and Professional Development in the Galloway Business Building to receive their gear.

Beyond giveaways, the center uses "Show Us Your Red" to help connect students with campus traditions and foster a sense of belonging. Burton said the weekly event gives students an easy way to engage with their peers while building pride in the university.

"The goal is always to remind students how important they are to this campus," she said. "Without strong athletic programs and traditions, student life just wouldn't be the same. But when students see the energy, they want to be a part of it."

Wear Red Friday is not limited to football season. Kyles-Burton said the tradition continues year-round, giving students an ongoing way to engage with campus spirit.

"Students know to show up, and they look forward to it," she said. "Some even joke, 'We've already got that,' when we hand out gear, but they keep coming back because they want to be part of the tradition."