Sep 07, 2008
Many students have categorized FIU's Trail of Torch as the biggest tradition on campus, and it just gets bigger year after year.
"We had the largest crowd this year," said President of the Student Alumni Association David Trujillo of the 400 plus students in attendance.
SAA founded TOT and is the main contributor of the event, arranging for 300 giveaways to be passed out -- all which ran out within the first 15 minutes.
"There were little mistakes here and there, but it turned out to be a huge success," Trujillo said.
The efforts put into TOT yielded great results; behind the scenes those who put it all together encountered minor complications, though. The company hired to set up a stage failed to arrive, leaving the event planners with quick alternative decisions to make.
Performances by hula dancers Aloha Islanders and the FIU cheerleaders kept the crowd excited. FIU football players also made an appearance to show their panther pride and school spirit. Students who attended Panther Camp demonstrated their spirit with painted, blue and gold faces and yelled "Panther Camp" during the ceremony. Zeta Phi Betas also enthused the crowd as they gathered to watch the final presentation of the show. Small, but positive changes, explained the high number of attendees and the success TOT had this year. Peer advisor Victor Caballero expressed his approval to the minor changes featured this year. "There was more time to dance and more free time to meet people," he said.
Angel Garcia, a faculty member highly respected for his public speaking skills and leadership qualities, ignited the torch this year.
"The whole night I was waiting for the lighting of the torch," said Gabriela Vazquez, TOT chair and coordinator
Although there were several other attractions, the lighting of the torch was still the main event of the night.
"It symbolized a new life and a new beginning for freshmen," said freshman Cristabel Durez. "I'm definitely coming back next year."