The University of Toledo’s annual Tie One On event has rapidly become a tradition on campus and in the community.

Since its inception in 2011 as a fundraiser for cancer care, awareness and outreach at The University of Toledo Medical Center, the event has made bow ties a significant part of campus culture. 

Now organizers are trying to further link the UT name to the distinctive, symmetrical neckwear by pursuing the world record for the number of bow ties tied simultaneously.

“Bow ties have become a big part of life at UT,” said Lawrence J. Burns, vice president for external affairs and Tie One On founder. “What started out as a way to inject fun and fashion into the daily life has evolved into a rallying point for the Rocket Nation.”

This year’s Tie One On event will be held Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 7 p.m. in Savage Arena when the UT men’s basketball team takes on rival Bowling Green.

As in past years, participants will attend a meet-and-greet in the Fetterman Athletic Training Facility, where they will receive their tie. However, this year, attendees will be asked to remain in the facility so UT can pursue recognition from Guinness World Records for the most bow ties tied simultaneously.

“This effort is designed to further our goal of making Tie One On a year-round idea on campus,” Burns said. “We are getting more and more student involvement through the new Bow Tie Tuesday initiative and seeing them attend the event in greater numbers.”

To register for Tie One On, visit utoledo.edu/tieoneon. The $100 donation includes a bow tie, ticket to the game, the reception and a chance to be a part of history. A silent jersey auction also accompanies the event.

“We’ve raised more than $40,000 for cancer care, awareness and outreach,” Burns said. “Now we’re taking it to the next level, and we hope the community will turn out in force to help us kick cancer’s butt.”

Media Coverage
The Blade (Feb. 2, 2014)
FOX Toledo (Feb. 4, 2014)
WNWO (Feb. 4, 2014)
13 ABC (Feb. 6, 2014)
The Blade (Feb. 9, 2014)