KU News Release

KU chancellor: Whistle to sound again atop Mount Oread

LAWRENCE — After hearing an outpouring of support for the campus steam whistle that signals the end of class periods, University of Kansas Chancellor Robert Hemenway today announced that the whistle would be turned back on as of Monday.

“One way you know something is truly a tradition is the way people react when it’s suddenly missing,” Hemenway said. “Jayhawks have told us how important this tradition is to them and what a memorable part of their lives at KU it is and was. Finding ways to be more efficient is always important and this was a well-intentioned move to save money. Sometimes you can’t put a price tag on an important tradition, which is why the whistle will once again sound atop Mount Oread.”

Hemenway said he appreciated those who had expressed their willingness to donate money to fund the whistle’s operation. He encouraged those who wanted to do so to contribute to the university’s maintenance fund, since it would help preserve campus facilities and infrastructure for current and future Jayhawks.

Jayhawks who would like to provide support for maintenance can visit KU Endowment’s Web site.

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The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.