When the sun sets March 16, Harrison Fountain will be lit up for the first time this year to celebrate the beginning of spring.

The Student Government Association will partner with Vice President of Student Affairs David Shields for the second annual Light the Fountain event at 7 p.m.

“Light the Fountain is to promote the start of spring and the celebration of our beautiful campus,”  said Rebecca Bush, SGA service chair.

Shields said last year over 200 students attended, and he expects a larger crowd this year.

Senior Beth Sandlin said she will be attending the event.

“It’s a great way to celebrate one of my favorite seasons and our beautiful campus,” Sandlin said.

President Kenneth Kitts will give a short presentation honoring former UNA head football coach Bobby Wallace, who retired this offseason after four consecutive conference championships and a national championship appearance this season.

Wallace will light Harrison Fountain between 7:30 – 8 p.m., and then the water will start running again, Bush said.

“The fountain turns off every year after fall graduation because of the cold weather,” said Sarah Green, SGA president.

SGA and vice president Shields had 300 T-shirts made to hand out when the event begins, Bush said.

“We will have a lot of small ‘grab ‘n go’ type food options including cookies, fruit, vegetables, cupcakes, crackers and cheese,” Bush said.

Freshman Forum Advisor Mollie Schaefer said Freshman Forum will set up a dessert table.

Sophomore John Phillips said Light the Fountain is an “awesome” tradition.

“Not every university has a huge fountain like ours,” Phillips said. “It’s a part of us that stands out when compared to other universities.”