Many colleges and universities have traditions and activities that are part of their campus culture and lore. The University of Guam is no different. From the “Big G” to Charter Day to Commencement to the President’s Cup competition, UOG has experiences that engage the Triton community and connect students, alumni, and even employees.
 
To further focus on that connection, UOG has launched its new Trident hand sign with the phrase: “Tritons Unite!”
 
The Trident hand sign is formed by holding up three fingers and folding the thumb over the pinky finger—like the sign for the number “three.” The hand sign not only represents King Triton’s famous Trident but also UOG’s three-fold mission: Ina, Deskubre, Setbe – to enlighten, to discover, and to serve.
 
The accompanying phrase “Tritons Unite!” is a call for all Tritons—past, present, and future—to show their pride for UOG.
 
“The Trident hand sign is a new tradition that embodies the strength and spirit of our Tritons,” said Jonas Macapinlac, Director of Integrated Marketing Communications. “It’s a new way to represent your University.”
 
Underwood introduced the Trident during his welcoming remarks at the Fall 2016 Commencement Ceremony in December, asking the audience to refrain from the “shaka” of the University of Hawaii and the “Hook ‘em Horns” of the University of Texas. Instead, he implored the graduates to proudly raise their hands with the “Trident” of the University of Guam.
 
On February 3, the UOG Student Government Association passed a resolution recognizing the Trident hand sign as an official UOG student tradition.
 
"This hand sign is a unique reminder of the school's mission,” said Samantha David, Student Government Association President. “It is one of the most visible ways to show Triton spirit and a definite symbol of UOG pride to generations of Tritons."
 
Macapinlac hopes the Trident and “Tritons Unite!” become a big part of campus culture. “This was developed for our Triton Community, and it’s uniquely UOG,” he said. “It’s starting to catch on.”