After 35 years and an updated sound system, the iconic MCC Alumni Clock Tower on the Southern and Dobson Campus has launched a new digital selection of daily chimes, pop hits and seasonal tunes. So whether you’re strolling through the Center Courtyard or within listening distance, you’ll hear new melodies ringing out at the top of the hour.
“With the updated digital sound system software, we can customize the playlist to celebrate school spirit on Thorsdays, play patriotic songs for the 4th of July or holiday carols in December,” said Ted Sowards, MCC video producer/editor, digital arts faculty member and MCC alumnus.
Ensuring that new music was ready for the first week of fall classes, Sowards applied his tech talents to perform the upgrade over the summer while randomly asking students what their musical preferences were.
“I stood by the tower on the first day of classes and asked students what they wanted to hear,” Sowards shared. “I’ve added their requests — including theme songs from 'Pokémon,' 'Harry Potter' and 'Star Wars.' The goal was to create an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere for students and our community — a little extra something for them to look forward to,” he added. Other songs on rotation include nostalgic '80s hits, such as “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor.
And while the chimes are new, the story behind them is rooted in decades of Thunderbird pride.
Designed as a focal point for the Southern and Dobson campus, the 56-foot tower was constructed in 1989 and officially dedicated on October 18, 1990, during Homecoming festivities.
According to an article published in the October 30, 1990, issue of the Mesa Legend, former MCC President Dr. Larry Christiansen dedicated the new tower noting, “It is important as colleges mature that we have a symbol of a positive collegiate environment. We appreciate the strength and support of our alumni and dedicate the clock tower in their honor.”
To commemorate the day, a bronze plaque at the base reads: “This clock tower is dedicated to the Alumni of Mesa Community College. You will always be more than former students. You are our special friends. October 18, 1990.”
Fast Facts
1990: The tower debuted using the most advanced 1990s technology, employing a seven-disc CD changer and solid-state amplifiers attached to weatherproof speakers to simulate the warm, authentic tones of traditional carillon bells. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was the first song played during the dedication ceremony.
2018: MCC teamed up with Arizona State University to use its specialized equipment to record a custom set of carillon music composed and recorded by MCC alumni staff and student volunteers.
Today: Nearly a decade later, a new chapter begins with a fresh musical lineup. On the anniversary of the clock tower dedication, the custom ASU/MCC collaboration songs will officially return to the daily rotation.
The next time you’re on the Southern and Dobson Campus, take a moment to look up, listen and celebrate the melodies connecting generations of MCC students, staff and alumni.
Listen to a clip of the new chimes.
We Want to Hear From You!
What tune would you love to hear ringing from the Clock Tower? What is your favorite memory of passing by the tower? Reply here or share your comments on our social media pages @mesacc!