Goldy's New Chair

By Rachel LeMire

Next time you're on the mall, look for a fun, new addition to campus!

Recently, a giant selfie chair was added to the mall between Northrop Auditorium and Coffman Memorial Union. The chair is for students, staff, and visitors, who are encouraged to take selfies in the chair and share to social media. The maroon and gold chair stands at almost 8 feet tall and features Goldy Gopher on an aluminum sign made by the University Sign and Graphic Shop.

The chair is a collaboration between the Admissions Office and Facilities Management and is positioned on the Mall between Walter Library and Tate Hall. Northrop Auditorium, a well-known symbol of the University, is in the background. Both the chair design and position were planned to emphasize that those who take a picture in the chair are at the University of Minnesota.

This project started as a wayfinding tactic for the 40,000+ students, parents, and other visitors who stop by campus each year. The idea originated when Facilities Management and the Admissions Office began thinking of ways to create a more welcoming, navigable and memorable campus. In addition to the chair, the groups have installed welcome signs on light posts leading to the Admissions Office in Jones Hall and are planning more projects to achieve an even more welcoming campus.

The chair was created in hopes that it would also become an icon for students and staff who are on campus daily. Goldy Gopher and many buildings around campus are already synonymous with the University of Minnesota- and now the selfie chair may become a symbol of the U as well.