Tarleton celebrates 100 year anniversary of the TTS

BY  REESE KEELING / Art Director  

Tarleton State University celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Ten Tarleton Sisters, the 10 girls in the Poo organization (TTS). The Purple Poo is the oldest spirit organization in Texas and it consists of 20 members each year. 

“I believe that keeping Tarleton tradition alive is so important because it is what makes Tarleton the school that it is,” Alumna Poo Makinzie Tomascik said. “So many kids come to Tarleton for its traditions, including myself.”

This secret organization shows up dressed in a mask and fully covered in funny clothes from head to toe. Each April, the retiring poo will unmask at the leadership and service awards. 

“We encourage everyone to promote the spirit of Tarleton and keep the spirit of Oscar P alive,” Alumna Poo Haleigh Solano said. “Since our identity is kept secret, we’re able to create friendships with students that mean something to them and us.”

The poo organization was formed in 1921 and 1923. They are selected by former Poo and they meet late at night and create signs for students and for athletic events. 

“Having students that help promote the spirit, embrace the traditions, and just bringing a positive attitude towards everything is so important,” Solano said. “Being able to represent Tarleton as a purple poo was amazing and the relationships I created under the masks are relationships that I will cherish forever.”

The Poo shows up to almost every event on campus whether it’s big or small. You can find the Poo at football games, basketball games, baseball games, homecoming events or even just walking down Rudder Way. The poo always brings the fun no matter what event it is. 

“Being a part of the TTS came with many obstacles that had to be overcome,” Alumna Poo Danielle Schroeder said. “One of the hardest parts for me was learning good time management.”

Most TTS are a part of many other organizations on campus including sororities, internships, Tarleton Transition mentors and other on campus organizations. Being behind a mask everyday while also keeping up with school and other social events comes with some challenges.