University joins tartan parade

The University of Dundee tartan has been officially launched at the annual Tartan Parade in New York City.

The tartan incorporates the colours of the Scottish Saltire, which reflects the historic association with St Andrews University, from 1897 to 1967. The red and gold of the crown of Scotland refers to the name of Queen's College, bestowed (in 1954) as a mark of royal favour. In 1967, the University of Dundee became an independent university, and the four main colours (red, gold, purple and blue) represent the four colleges of the University.

Gordon Craig, Director of Admissions and Student Recruitment at the University, recently visited the United States on a whistle stop tour of four states with strong Scottish connections. The launch of the University tartan in New York formed one of the highlights of the trip which included a recruitment tour of four of Dundee's `Study Abroad' partner institutions, including private and state Universities in Pittsburgh, Baltimore, New Jersey and the State University of New York.

"These are universities who do send Study Abroad students to Dundee, and we want to generate further interest in Dundee from these universities and educate them about Scotland and all the things which Dundee can offer their students," said Mr Craig.

"On our last visit to the USA we we were overwhelmed by the interest in Scotland, and how fashionable and indeed trendy tartan has become."

"With the huge "Dressed to Kilt" shows now in Los Angeles and New York and its popularity as a fashion garment, it seemed a good idea to register our own tartan and use it to promote the University in America and worldwide. In time we will roll out a variety of garments, including kilts which students could wear at graduation ceremonies, or at one of the many Student Balls held throughout the year."