Joe Vandal statue unveiled in front of Kibbie Dome

The University of Idaho unveiled a 9-foot statue of its mascot, Joe Vandal, on Saturday, honoring the Associated Students of Idaho (ASUI) for their contributions to campus facilities. The statue, placed in front of the P1FCU Kibbie Dome, weighs around 2,000 pounds and features a 5-foot-wide base. University President C. Scott Green remarked that the Dome serves as a beloved gathering space for students and alumni, made possible through ASUI’s long-standing support. In 1974, the ASUI voted to allocate student fees for improvements to the Dome, which has since become a nationally recognized landmark.

Artist Gareth Curtiss worked with students, alumni, and community members to design the statue, celebrating the Vandal spirit. Green emphasized the Dome's role in hosting a variety of events, including soccer games and commencement ceremonies, making it more than just a football venue. He expressed gratitude for the thousands of students who contributed fees to make the Dome a reality. The unveiling of the statue marks a tribute to the enduring contributions of the Vandal student body, both past and present.