First look

Art appreciation, pandemic style

MEMBERS OF USF’S PINELLAS COUNTY ALUMNI CHAPTER pose in front of “Eye of the Storm” by aerosol artist Ricky Watts during their recent Walking Mural Tour in downtown St. Petersburg.

USF’s alumni groups have found creative ways to stay connected during the coronavirus pandemic, including in-person gatherings like this limited-capacity outdoor tour.

Art lovers, from left, included Pam Haber, ’85 and MAcc ’97, Life Member; Bea Rahms, ’86; Lucinda Hehemann, ’85; guide James Hartzell; Helen Huntley, MA ’78; Bruce Ford, MBA ’00; Stephen Caldwell, ’87; Robin Munroe; Angela Bartolotta, ’18; Al Bartolotta, ’82 and MPA ’90; and – not pictured because she was the photographer – Donna Betz, ’86.

Hosted by the St. Petersburg Central Arts District in partnership with Florida CraftArt, the guided tours include more than 30 murals in a four-block area. For more information, visit floridacraftart.org/ product/mural-tours.

First Look

It’s electric

USF IS TAKING STEPS TO SUPPORT a more sustainable environment by debuting its first zero-emission electric bus in the Bull Runner fleet on the Tampa campus. The new Proterra 40-foot Catalyst E2 bus rolled out for the first time on Earth Day.

According to the manufacturer, replacing a diesel bus with an electric bus reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 230,000 pounds annually, which is equivalent to planting 5,000 trees. Electric buses also produce less noise pollution in the community and offer riders a smoother experience.

The new bus was jointly funded by the university’s Student Green Energy Fund and USF Parking and Transportation Services. The Student Green Energy Fund was launched in 2011 to support USF’s commitment to reduce and eventually eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from the Tampa campus.