Ever noticed the unique handshake that's become a tradition at the State University of New York (SUNY) Potsdam? More than just a greeting, the "Potsdam Handshake" is a symbol of unity and identity for the Bears community. Let's delve into the history, significance, and impact of this unique tradition.
First introduced in the late 1990s, the Potsdam Handshake was created to foster school spirit and unity among students, faculty, and staff. It was inspired by the institution's attempt to shake off its past as a teacher's college and embrace a new, more inclusive identity. With SUNY Potsdam's transformation into a comprehensive university, the Handshake became a tangible way to honor and celebrate this shift.
The origins and evolution of the Potsdam Handshake
Initially, the Handshake was a simple gesture between the thumbs. However, over time, it evolved into a more complex and symbolic movement. Today, it involves interlocking both hands with another person, a gesture that represents unity, collaboration, and mutual support.
A defining moment in the Handshake's evolution came in 1999, when then-President Brenda R. Hemstreet famously used it to greet then-New York Governor George Pataki during a campus visit. The gesture was captured on camera and published in local newspapers, spreading awareness of the unique tradition and boosting its significance.
The Handshake as a symbol of Bear Pride
For many SUNY Potsdam students, the Handshake is more than just a fun greeting; it's a powerful symbol of their shared identity. It's a testament to the collective pride and spirit that binds together this tight-knit community of Bears.
You'll often see students using the Handshake to greet each other before classes, at athletics events, or during campus-wide gatherings. It's a quick, easy way to recognize and connect with fellow Bears. This shared language fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the campus's vibrant, engaging culture.
The Handshake as a marketing tool
SUNY Potsdam has also cleverly leveraged the Handshake as a powerful marketing tool. It's a memorable, distinctive aspect of the university's brand that sets it apart from other institutions. prospective students, for instance, might be drawn to the quirks and uniqueness of the campus culture, with the Handshake serving as a perfect example.
Moreover, the Handshake has been a successful tool for alumni engagement. Many SUNY Potsdam alumni, both near and far, continue to use the Handshake, fostering a sense of connection with their alma mater and fellow Bear alumni.
The Handshake today and into the future
The Potsdam Handshake continues to be an integral part of campus life. It's a timeless tradition that has withstood the test of time, adapting and evolving with the changing landscape of the university.
Today, the Handshake is not just practiced on campus; it's gone viral, with individuals and groups across the nation using the gesture to show their support for SUNY Potsdam. Celebrities, politicians, and even mascots have been known to flash the Handshake. The national attention has served to underscore the unique, powerful culture at SUNY Potsdam.
Teaching and preserving the tradition
To ensure the Handshake's future, SUNY Potsdam has implemented initiatives to teach and preserve the tradition. For instance, incoming freshmen often learn the Handshake during orientation week, while athletic teams practice the gesture to pump up their spirit before games.
Potsdam's website offers a "Handshake How-to" video, making it easy for new Bears to master the art. The university also hosts an annual "Handshake Day," bringing the campus community together to celebrate and showcase this enduring tradition.
As SUNY Potsdam continues to grow and evolve, the Potsdam Handshake remains a steadfast symbol of the Bear community's unity and spirit. It's a vibrant, tangible link to the past, a beacon of identity in the present, and a promise of continuity into the future. So, the next time you're on campus or meet a SUNY Potsdam alumnus, don't be shy - reach out and give them the Handshake. It'll start a conversation, and you might just make a new friend.