Community Invited to ‘Paint Missoula Maroon’
MISSOULA – Missoula’s residential, commercial and business districts are invited to “Paint Missoula Maroon” to welcome University of Montana students to campus for the 2021-22 academic year and renew a sense of pride in the University of Montana.
Greg Sundberg, senior associate athletic director and executive director of the Grizzly Scholarship Association, spearheaded the “Paint Missoula Maroon” initiative to drive a visible momentum for UM, its students and its impact on Missoula’s economic vitality. He also wanted to highlight the inextricable connection between UM and the Missoula community.
“This past year-and-a-half have been difficult for everyone,” Sundberg said. “The goal of this initiative is to come together as a university town, show pride in our University colors and welcome students to one of the best universities in the nation – in a town that deeply supports its success. We thought the best way to do that is to renew UM pride by trying – as best we can – to paint Missoula maroon along with our business and community members.”
University student and staff volunteers will distribute free Griz Kits to area business on Tuesday, Aug. 17. The kits are filled with UM stickers, yard signs, flags, window decals and for display.
“To celebrate Montana’s flagship University and its contribution to the community, we are asking all neighbors and business supporters of UM to help Paint Missoula Maroon to create a welcoming and vibrant environment for students, families and visitors as they return to campus this fall,” said Dave Kuntz, UM’s strategic communications director.
Once community members are displaying Griz gear, they are encouraged to share photos on social media with the hashtag #PaintMissoulaMaroon.
On Monday, Aug. 23, UM students will move into residence halls. Monday, Aug. 30, is the first day of classes. Additionally, UM will host Homecoming Sept. 20-25, and the first home Grizzly football game will be held Sept. 11.
“There is so much to celebrate in our community and within our University,” Sundberg said. “We know Grizzly pride runs deep in our town, and we’re hoping this renewed effort brings forth that visible energy.”
For more information on Paint Missoula Maroon email communications@mso.umt.edu or call Dave Kuntz at 406-243-5659.
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Contact: Dave Kuntz, UM strategic communications director, 406-243-5659, dave.kuntz@umontana.edu.