It's time to pull out the purple and gold welcome mat with pride for our students this fall.

Dig out your yard signs or stop by a nearby distribution center to pick one up and show your support.

TTU’s annual Pride Days celebration, from Aug. 21 to Sept. 3, allows the campus community to show students how glad we are they chose our university. Plus, each year the number of participating area businesses has grown so that faculty, staff and students can take advantage of special TTU discounts.

"Our community is one of the key selling points when we talk to prospective students,” says Monica Greppin, director of Public Affairs. “Students develop good feelings from being welcomed by the people who live here. As TTU Pride Partners, businesses reap the benefits of reaching the campus community with promotions, and the university enjoys the visible show of support."

Of course, TTU Pride signs become a hot commodity for businesses and other community members who want to take part. This year's distribution locations include the Roaden University Center Information Desk, Hooper Eblen Center ticket office, Alumni Relations Office, the Leslie Town Centre Chamber of Commerce and businesses. A complete list of distribution points can be found on the Pride Days web site.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to support businesses whose special promotions have designated them "official TTU Pride Partners." Look for TTU Pride signs with "Partner" decals displayed at businesses offering welcome-back deals. A regularly updated list of partners — along with specials, discounts and coupons — is available also on the Pride Days web site.

Dozens of administrative and academic offices on campus have put their own stamp on TTU Pride Days by participating in the annual Awesome Office contest. In the past, judges and President Bob Bell have been impressed with the enthusiasm and creativity generated from the contest.

The contest is not just about pride, it's also about prizes. Winners in the past have received free massages, gourmet coffees, free lunches at O'Charley's and other area restaurants and more. Check the web site for this year's prizes.

Registration for the contest runs today through Friday, Aug. 19. Judging will take place the morning of Aug. 24. E-mail Tracey LeFevre in Public Affairs at tlefevre to register.

For more information, visit the Pride Days web site or call Public Affairs at 3214.