Go Gators: Sixth alligator statue — a good-luck symbol — to be unveiled on UF campus

An alligator statue will join the five others on the University of Florida campus on Thursday during an unveiling ceremony in front of Library West — an event to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the George A. Smathers Libraries.

More than 400 pounds and nine feet long, the statue — formally known as “Focused Attention” and created by sculptor David Price and gifted to the libraries in 2016 by the A.H. Burnett Foundation — will be unveiled at 12:30 p.m. on the first day of classes, Aug. 21. A carillon concert, featuring school songs such as “Orange and Blue” and “We are the Boys,” will be performed from Century Tower by Laura Ellis, DMA, professor and associate school director for the School of Music.

With the semester beginning and fall sports on the horizon, there is a new tradition with this statue: Rub its nose before an exam or athletic event for good luck. 

"As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Smathers Library building, and the overall contribution of the libraries to the university, the unveiling of the new alligator statue outside Library West — alongside the University Colonnade — marks a powerful symbol of our legacy and future,” said Judy Russell, former dean of University Libraries. “These landmarks reflect the enduring spirit of the Gator Nation and our continued commitment to creating spaces that inspire learning, connection and pride."

“Focused Attention” was originally housed on the third floor of Library West. UF alumna MaryEllen Burnett commissioned and donated the statue to make the statement that “focused attention” is the key to success in academics and athletics. 

The other five statues of alligators on campus include the Bull Gator outside of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on the corner of Stadium Road and Gale Lemerand Drive, the Bull Gator on Gator Walk facing University Avenue, the Bull Gator outside of the University Auditorium, Albert and Alberta outside of Emerson Alumni Hall, and Ubiquity Gator outside of Heavener Hall.

Guests at the “Focused Attention” unveiling can pick up a “Greetings from Gator Country” postcard featuring all six alligator statues.