Ten orange-bellied two-feet-long Koi lit up the water feature––the popular centerpiece of the quad on the campus of UNC Pembroke––during a ceremonial release on Friday, September 13.

One by one, the colorful Japanese carp were released into the feature––a campus staple since its 2002 installation. UNCP alumnus and businessman Harvey Godwin Jr.,’90, and his wife, Sheila, ’89, donated the fish. The Godwins have been raising Koi at their home for nearly 30 years. 

“We were overstocked, so we started thinking about a place to take them where they would be taken care of,” said Harvey Godwin, former Lumbee Tribal Chairman. “We thought of UNCP because the water feature is a very popular destination where folks come to take pictures, especially during graduation. We thought the Koi would be a nice added attraction.”

The one-acre water feature, which includes a fountain and the Jones Bridge, is in front of the Livermore Library and is a central focal point, especially during convocation and commencement. As tradition goes, first-year students cross the Jones Bridge, symbolizing their entrance into the UNCP community. Students will cross over in the opposite direction at their commencement, concluding their academic journey.

Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings joined the Godwins at the ceremony, assisting in the release.

“We take immense pride in our beautiful campus, which is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our outstanding team of groundskeepers. The quad and signature water feature have long been focal points, and thanks to supporters like the Godwins––this nice added feature will continue to attract students and visitors to this beautiful space,” Cummings said.