College Presidents Kick Off a Coast-to-Coast Showdown
With excitement building for Super Bowl LX, the presidents of Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) and North Seattle College (NSC) are bringing some friendly competition of their own to the field.
The two institutions have announced a lighthearted wager tied to their respective hometown NFL teams. If the New England Patriots prevail, North Seattle College President Dr. Rachel Solemsaas will don QCC apparel and New England football gear, posting a
celebratory photo on social media. If the Seattle Seahawks take home the victory, QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja will do the same in NSC colors and Seahawks gear.
Building on a long friendship that grew from work with the American Association of Community Colleges, the presidents’ bet is meant to spotlight the pride and passion that students, alumni and community members feel for both institutions and their local communities.
"The Patriots are a great team, and we respect New England very much. That said, the Tree Frogs of North Seattle College must align with our hometown heroes, the Seattle Seahawks, in the big game,” said Solemsaas. “I'm sure my good friend, President Dr. Luis Pedraja and the amazing faculty, staff and students at Quinsigamond Community College will understand that this is Seattle's year. The memory of 2015 is a heavy burden that we've been carrying around for 11 years. But now it is payback time.”
QCC is getting into the Super Bowl spirit this week with an on-campus tailgate party and a Patriots apparel donation drive for
students.
“As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, our campuses are buzzing — QCC Wyverns and North Seattle Tree Frogs alike — cheering on our favorite teams with all the enthusiasm our faculty, staff and students can muster. And while I am good friends with Dr. Solemaas, even friendship can’t stop a little spirited coast-to-coast rivalry,” said Pedraja. “Here in New England, we are absolutely convinced the Patriots are ready to repeat their 2015 magic ... and yes, we fully believe they’re going to win! Consider this our playful warning that bragging rights are already warming up on the sidelines. Here’s to a great game, and a friendly rivalry that brings our campuses even closer, no matter which mascot hops or soars away victorious.”
Follow QCC’s Facebook or Instagram (quinsigcc) and NSC’s Facebook or Instagram (north_seattle_college) for updates and some pre-Super Bowl hype videos.