
Lamar University, a public research university in Beaumont, Texas, has a unique name and an even more unique nickname for its students. The university, founded in 1923, has grown to include several colleges and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a rich history and a strong focus on academic achievement, Lamar University has established itself as a prominent educational institution. But what are its students called? The answer is a source of pride for the university's community.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lamar University Students are called | Lamar Cardinals or LU Cardinals |
| Lamar University is | A nationally-ranked college in Texas |
| Lamar University is named after | Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas |
| Lamar University's mascot | Big Red, a cardinal |
| Number of students | 15,000 (Roughly) |
| Year founded | 1923 |
| Campus size | 292 acres |
| Type of Institution | Public |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn

Lamar University students are called 'Lamar Cardinals'
Lamar University students are called Lamar Cardinals, which comes from the university's mascot, Big Red, a cardinal. Lamar University, also known as LU, is a public university in Beaumont, Texas, United States, with a campus size of over 290 acres. The university was founded in 1923 as South Park Junior College and has grown to include over 120 degree options across five undergraduate colleges, one graduate college, and an honours college.
The university's athletic teams are known as the Cardinals, with the men's teams referred to as the Cardinals and the women's teams called the Lady Cardinals. The Cardinals compete in the Southland Conference in NCAA Division I athletics, with students also participating in marching band, cheerleading, and the dance team. Lamar University students enjoy cheering on the Cardinals in 15 NCAA Division I men's and women's sports, including basketball, golf, tennis, track and field, and cross country. The university's football program, in particular, heightens excitement on campus with conference-leading crowds.
The Lamar Cardinals have a history of success in athletics, with several notable alumni distinguishing themselves in sports. For example, PGA Tour golfer Chris Stroud, MLB player Kevin Millar, and college coaches Billy Tubbs and Jim Gilligan. The baseball program has been nationally recognised and has produced multiple major leaguers.
In addition to athletics, Lamar University offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved on campus. There are more than 150 registered student clubs and organisations, as well as intramural teams and group fitness classes. The university also emphasises hands-on learning and provides ample opportunities for undergraduate research. With a diverse range of degree programs, a beautiful campus, and a strong commitment to education, Lamar University provides students with a well-rounded and engaging educational experience.
Longwood University: Student Population and Campus Life
You may want to see also
Explore related products

The name comes from the mascot 'Big Red', a cardinal
Lamar University, a public university in Beaumont, Texas, is named for Mirabeau B. Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas. The university's sports teams are called the Cardinals, and its students and alumni are referred to as "Lamar Cardinals", paying homage to the school's mascot, Big Red, a cardinal.
The Lamar Cardinals compete in the Southland Conference in NCAA Division I athletics for all varsity sports, including baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track and field, and cross country. The football team competes at the NCAA Division I (FCS) subdivision level. The university's athletic programs have a rich history of success, with championship wins in several sports and alumni who have excelled in professional sports.
The university's mascot, Big Red, is a cardinal, a bird species native to North and South America. The choice of the cardinal as the school's mascot and the subsequent naming of the sports teams and students as Cardinals draw inspiration from this bird species commonly found in Texas and across the United States.
The cardinal is known for its vibrant red plumage, particularly among males, which likely influenced the choice of red as one of the prominent colours in Lamar University's athletic uniforms and academic regalia. The cardinal's presence in Texas and across the United States makes it a recognisable and iconic symbol for the university, fostering a sense of regional and national pride.
Beyond the connection to the university's location, the cardinal also symbolises strength, resilience, and endurance. Cardinals are known for their hardy nature, adapting to various habitats and weathering harsh winters. These qualities align with the university's values of perseverance in the pursuit of academic excellence and athletic achievement. The cardinal's vibrant colouration and energetic nature also embody the spirit and enthusiasm that Lamar University aims to cultivate within its student body and athletic teams.
Summers Off: A University Student's Dream or Reality?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

LU is a nationally-ranked college in Texas
Lamar University (LU) is a nationally-ranked college in Texas, United States. It is a public university in the city of Beaumont, Texas, about 85 miles (140 km) east of Houston. Founded in 1923 as South Park Junior College, the university has grown significantly over the years and is now a thriving institution with a diverse range of academic programs and a vibrant campus life.
LU offers a wide range of academic opportunities for its students, with more than 120 degree options across various disciplines. The university is organized into five undergraduate colleges, one graduate college, and an honours college. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs, with a strong focus on academic achievement and hands-on learning. The university's curriculum is nationally recognized for its quality, and it is one of only 29 public universities recognized as a Carnegie Doctoral Research University by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.
The campus life at LU is a perfect blend of urban living and a close-knit community feel. The campus spans over 290 acres and provides a variety of facilities and amenities for students. With more than 150 registered student clubs and organizations, students can easily find like-minded individuals and pursue their interests. The university also has a strong athletic presence, with the Cardinals competing in NCAA Division I athletics and a rich history of success in sports such as basketball, golf, tennis, and baseball.
LU has a rich history and is named after Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas, who was also known as the "Father of Education" in the state. The university has experienced periods of significant growth, particularly under the leadership of President Emeritus James M. Simmons from 1999 to 2013. During this time, LU added new facilities, attracted generous donations, and set repeated enrollment records.
LU is also committed to providing accessible and affordable education, offering financial aid and scholarships to support students in their academic pursuits. With a strong alumni base of over 75,000, the university has produced successful individuals in various fields, including sports, with several Cardinals making their mark nationally and internationally.
University Student Population: The Average Number
You may want to see also
Explore related products

It is a public university with a large student body
Lamar University (Lamar or LU) is a public university in Beaumont, Texas, with a large student population. Founded in 1923 as South Park Junior College, the university has experienced significant growth over the years, with a total enrollment of approximately 15,000 students, most of whom are undergraduates. As of fall 2024, the university's enrollment was 17,850 students.
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, with over 120 degree options across various fields. It is organized into five undergraduate colleges, one graduate college, and an honours college. Lamar University also has a strong focus on research, offering doctoral programs and being classified as a Doctoral Research University by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
The university's students are referred to as "Lamar Cardinals" or simply "Cardinals," derived from the university's mascot, "Big Red," a cardinal. The university's athletic teams also carry the same name, competing in the Southland Conference in NCAA Division I athletics. The university has a vibrant campus life, with over 250 student organizations, clubs, and intramural teams, providing a blend of urban living and a close-knit community feel.
Lamar University's campus spans over 290 acres, offering a beautiful setting for students to pursue their academic goals. The university is committed to providing accessible and affordable education, with a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities. It has produced notable alumni, including athletes and coaches, and is recognised for its quality curriculum and hands-on learning approach.
Wilberforce University: Student Population and Campus Life
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Lamar University has a range of degree programs and colleges
Lamar University (LU) is a public university in Beaumont, Texas, with a campus of over 300 acres. It is named after Mirabeau B. Lamar, the founder of public education in Texas, and has been a member of the Texas State University System since 1995. The university is organised into five undergraduate colleges, one graduate college, and an honours college.
Lamar University offers a wide range of degree programs, including MBAs, undergraduate programs, and Master of Education degrees. The university offers more than 120 degree options, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The university's academic colleges include the College of Engineering, College of Education and Human Development, College of Business, College of Fine Arts and Communication, and the College of Arts and Sciences.
The College of Engineering offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a Doctor of Engineering degree. The College of Education and Human Development prepares students for careers in education and related fields, with programs such as the Master of Education degree. The College of Business offers programs such as the MBA, while the College of Fine Arts and Communication provides programs in areas such as the arts and communication.
The College of Arts and Sciences is a diverse academic college offering programs in a range of fields, including the sciences. Additionally, the College of Graduate Studies offers master's and doctoral programs for students wishing to further their education and specialisations. The Reaud Honors College, housed in the Wayne A. Reaud Building, provides an excellent Honors Program for high-achieving students.
Lamar University also offers a range of online programs, providing flexibility and convenience for students. These programs are taught by the same distinguished faculty as the on-campus programs, ensuring a high-quality education. The university is committed to helping students reach their full potential and providing a personalised environment that fosters individual success. With a rich campus life, excellent sports teams, and a strong alumni network, Lamar University offers a well-rounded educational experience.
Exploring Student Population at Niagara University
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Current and former students of Lamar University are referred to as "Lamar Cardinals", which comes from the university's mascot, "Big Red", a cardinal.
Lamar University was founded in 1923 as South Park Junior College. In 1932, the college was renamed to honour Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas and the "Father of Education" in Texas.
Lamar University has a vibrant campus life, offering over 150 registered student clubs and organisations. Students can also cheer on the Cardinals in 15 NCAA Division I men's and women's sports, including football, basketball, golf, tennis, and track and field.
The Lamar University campus covers over 290 acres and offers a blend of urban living with a close-knit community feel. The campus includes various amenities, such as Starbucks in the library and several restaurants.









































