As TJC approaches its centennial, we hold tightly to the traditions that have withstood the test of time while embracing new ones.
In an effort to preserve our history and open our minds, teaching and guiding our students into their much-anticipated futures, TJC has installed a new, beautifully created, bronzed statue of an Apache Warrior, and a Harris’s Hawk taking flight.
This statue symbolizes the College releasing our students into the world, ready and prepared to take on what they’ve been taught here at TJC.
Nearly two years of planning, deliberation, and construction took place to create this work of art. TJC leaders and an advisory committee partnered with the State of Texas Lipan Apache Council to learn more about the Apache tribe and its history.
Dallas Sculptor, Hobbes Vincent, an artist with ties to TJC, was selected to create the statue. He worked with TJC and the Lipan council, as well as studied the Harris’s Hawks at the Fort Worth Zoo, to portray both the Apache Warrior and the Hawk accurately.
The statue stands tall and proud in the heart of the Cultural Arts District on TJC’s Central Campus, in the Billie & Bill Hartley Honor Plaza.
With our beloved institution approaching its 100-year anniversary, there are traditions that are rich and powerful, and that have withstood the test of time. Throughout its nearly 97-year history, TJC has proudly celebrated the Apache Spirit — Apaches, synonymous with “fierce warrior.”
The Harris’s Hawk symbolizes the very spirit of TJC. We come together as our own “pack” from all walks of life, diverse cultures, and backgrounds, and encourage each other while working together for a common goal.
Respected by the Lipan Apache Tribe for its power, intuition, victory, and guardianship qualities, the Harris’s Hawk is the official spirit guide of TJC.
In October of 2022, Harry the Hawk was introduced at TJC’s Homecoming as the new official Mascot of TJC.
Harry can often be seen at athletic events cheering on and supporting his fellow Apaches.