Jason and the Argonauts earned fame and glory by capturing the golden fleece.
It’s good luck to possess or find a golden fleece on campus. Its symbolism on campus is derived from our mascot's origin story: Jason and the Argonauts' Quest for the Golden Fleece.
Jason Accepts a Mission to Return with the Golden Fleece
Jason was the son of a king usurped by his brother, Jason’s uncle. He grew up outside the kingdom and returned at 20 to reclaim the throne. His uncle promised to give it back if Jason brought the Golden Fleece from King Aietes of Colchis, who held it.
Jason and the Argonauts Set Sail
Jason and his band of Argonauts sailed with the boat “Argo” to Colchis, overcoming many obstacles along the way.
Jason Completes the Challenges
When they finally arrived, King Aietes told Jason he could have the fleece if he completed three challenges, all designed to kill him. Jason worked with the King's daughter, the sorceress Medea, to complete the challenges.
Jason Returns with the Golden Fleece!
With some magical help from the sorceress Medea, Jason successfully completed the challenges, retrieved the fleece and was made king upon his arrival back home.
Little bits of this myth are woven into UWF’s culture. For example, our Homecoming concert is called ‘Colchis’, and if you look closely around campus, you’ll find references to boats (Homecoming boat race anyone?), voyaging (the voyager student-run newspaper), teamwork, and of course, the Golden Fleece.
My name is Maggie Brown, and I am the past UWF SGA President, 2024-25. The Golden Fleece was a part of my initiative to create a new tradition on campus by students, for students. So far, we have created adorable plushies, this awesome website featuring original art from an Argo alumnus, and an amazing mural inside Martin Hall. The myth of Jason and the Argonauts pursuing the Golden Fleece reminded me of my college experience, encountering obstacles and capturing the Golden Fleece (aka finishing college!) Whether you have a plushie or you walk by the mural, I hope that the symbol of the Golden Fleece motivates you to always work hard and remember that the fun is all in the journey.
Real-life Argonaut, Maggie Brown
The myth of Jason and the Argonauts reminds us to be courageous and persistent. The path to our goal may be filled with obstacles, but with every step we take, we move closer until at last we claim our own Golden Fleece.
Inspired by this message, UWF created the Golden Fleece mural at Martin Hall, the place where Argos begin their journey on campus. Designed by the Office of Design and Communication, the mural is a reminder that you can make it! With perseverance and support whenever needed, you can achieve all your goals.
The artwork is rich with details that connect Jason’s story to our students, and it highlights the Golden Fleece as a radiant, sunlike creature. More than a prize, it symbolizes a moment of the rising sun– a sign of new beginnings and open doors to even greater dreams.
So, next time you pass by the Golden Fleece mural, take a moment to appreciate it—and remind yourself of the glory that awaits you!