“Peanuts” cartoon strip’s Lucy van Pelt joined the Sonoma State University family Tuesday with the unveiling of a 5-foot, 500-pound statue of the sometimes crabby but always loveable character.
President Judy K. Sakaki and Library Dean Karen Schneider made remarks before revealing the newest Seawolf, who resides in front of the Jean and Charles Schulz Information Center (Library). Jean Schulz, widow of “Peanuts” creator Charles Schulz, was on hand for the unveiling.
Lucy sports Sonoma State’s colors in her clothing: a dark blue Sonoma State shirt with the Sonoma State University name and Seawolf paw print over a light-blue dress; blue socks and blue-and-white shoe strings on her white shoes.
The statue was obtained by Lisa Clyde of the Schulz family and donated to the university. Local artist Mary Vaughan restored it and “dressed” Lucy. On the pedestal painted in blue sky and clouds, Vaughn added the inscription, “When it comes to learning, the sky is the limit.” Restoration was made possible by the Jean and Charles Schulz endowment
Schneider called Lucy a perfect “Peanuts” character to serve as the official Library greeter. “She’s smart and tenacious, and has a sense of mischief.”
Schneider said the Lucy statue undoubtedly will be the source of many selfies by students, faculty, staff, alumni and community visitors, plus, “Lucy will also be an important landmark for answering my favorite question: ‘Which way is the Library?’ ”