Rice University immortalized one of its most devoted alumni Sept. 6, dedicating a bronze sculpture outside the player entrance of Rice Stadium in honor of former football standout and lifetime trustee Bucky Allshouse ’71.
The sculpture — dubbed the “Bucky Owl” — stands as both a tribute and a new tradition. From now on, Rice athletes will touch the owl before taking the field, carrying with them the legacy of a man whose life has been defined by his service to the university.
“It’s hard to think of Rice without thinking of Bucky Allshouse,” Rice President Reginald DesRoches said at the ceremony. “Bucky has always been there for Rice — cheering us on, giving his time, energy and his heart. This statue is a way for every player and fan to carry a little of Bucky’s spirit with them.”
Allshouse arrived at Rice in 1967 as a defensive back for the Owls, later earning induction into the Rice Athletic Hall of Fame. But his greatest contributions came after his playing days. He served as an academic adviser affectionately known as the “brain coach,” led the Owl Club, the “R” Association and the Association of Rice Alumni and chaired galas and scholarship fundraisers. He has also played a pivotal role in supporting the Baker Institute for Public Policy and the Shepherd School of Music.
His service to Rice has spanned decades, including 33 years as a trustee, making him the university’s last lifetime trustee.
“What has always defined Bucky is not just what he accomplished as a player,” said Tommy McClelland, vice president and director of athletics. “It’s the way he never stopped fighting for Rice. He epitomizes the motto, ‘Rice Fight Never Dies.’”
McClelland said the statue will create a living tradition linking Rice athletes across generations.
“They will walk past the statue, touch it and step onto the field carrying a part of his legacy with them,” he said. “That’s the kind of tradition that makes a place like Rice so special.”
Robert T. Ladd, chairman of the Rice Board of Trustees, called Allshouse’s impact on the university “legendary.”
For Allshouse, the tribute was humbling. He recalled the moment he first knew Rice was where he belonged.
“I fell in love with Rice immediately,” Allshouse said. “I walked down those steps and told Bo Hagan — former Rice football coach — ‘I’m going to come here. This is the place for me.’ People ask me if I’d do it all over again, and the answer is yes… I’m humbled by this honor.”