A new eagle statue was unveiled on the Campus of Central Methodist University following the Class of 2020’s graduation ceremony Sunday evening. The statue, dedicated to the Class of 2020, is located in front of T. Berry Smith Hall, only steps away from the monument from the Class of 1920. It serves as a symbol of the struggles endured by the seniors who endured a traumatic end to their college careers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It is fitting that we commemorate the way the Class of 2020 senior year came to an unfortunately early close,” said Central President Roger Drake. “The eagle is the perfect symbol for the Class of 2020. All other birds seek shelter from the storm. Only the eagle rises above it, flying higher than the storm clouds can reach. I think that's a perfect metaphor for the Class of 2020.”

Like all schools, CMU closed the campus to in-person learning in March when fears over the pandemic came to ahead. Students did not return to campus following Spring Break and finished out the school year remotely.

“You faced a storm like no other class before you. You will rise above it,” said Pres. Drake.

The statue was commissioned by the university’s Student Government Association. Rachel Buyck-Hahn and Taylor Rumsey, who served as President and Vice President, respectively, spearheaded the effort to create the monument to the Class of 2020. Originally, SGA had planned to present a concert by up-and-coming pop musician Bryce Vine. But the pandemic forced the university to cancel. 

“Instead of asking questions about why, they asked ‘what can we do?’,” said CMU Dean of Students Brad Dixon. 

“In March, when the school year took an unexpected turn, the SGA wanted to figure out a way to leave a lasting impact on campus and to commemorate our class for 2020,” said Ms. Rumsey.

The eagle, also the CMU mascot, represents strength, bravery, and perseverance in tough times, explained Ms. Buych-Hahn. “Along with being able to commemorate a historical class, which is also our own, this statue is something we hope will be an icon on this incredible campus we have come to love.”