Sign the Gold Star is one of Oklahoma City University's cherished alumni traditions, connecting today's graduates with generations of Stars who came before them.
The tradition was officially established in 2021, inspired by a long-standing campus legend that students had been finding their way to the top of the Gold Star Memorial Building to sign their names since the 1960s. Through conversations with alumni and campus leaders, that unofficial tradition evolved into an annual experience that now welcomes every graduating class to become part of OCU history.
The Gold Star Memorial Building was constructed to honor OCU alumni who lost their lives during World War II. While the building's upper floors were never completed due to accessibility concerns and remain closed to the public, graduating students are invited to the seventh floor during commencement week for a rare opportunity to experience the tower, enjoy its panoramic views, and add their signatures alongside decades of OCU alumni.
Although the inaugural event was originally planned for 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed its launch until 2021. The first ceremony carried special significance, honoring the resilience of the Classes of 2020 and 2021 while establishing a tradition that continues today.
Each spring, graduating students are invited to leave their mark by signing the Gold Star tower before commencement. Every signature represents not only the completion of an OCU education but also the beginning of a lifelong connection to the OCU alumni community.
The tradition doesn't end at graduation. Alumni are encouraged to add their names whenever they return to campus, whether during Homecoming, a reunion, or another visit. Visitors who would like to participate can contact the Office of Alumni Engagement to arrange access to the tower. Those planning to make the climb to the seventh floor should complete the required waiver before their visit using the Sign the Waiver button below. Alumni who are unable or prefer not to make the climb may sign a commemorative plaque on the building's ground floor, which is displayed alongside the signatures in the tower.
Follow Starsky as he makes the climb to the seventh floor during the inaugural Sign the Gold Star event in 2021 and get a preview of the tradition that continues today.
