Tenders the Tabby: UF's Feline Sensation Vying for an Honorary Degree

Tenders, the beloved tabby cat who has captured the hearts of the University of Florida (UF) community, is now in the running for an honorary degree. This furry campus celebrity has been a constant presence, providing comfort and joy to students, faculty, and staff alike. As the university considers bestowing this prestigious honor, the story of Tenders' rise to fame and her impact on the UF experience unfolds.

Tenders' Paw-some Journey to Campus Stardom

A Feline Fixture on Campus

Tenders, the tabby cat, has been a fixture on the UF campus since around 2018. Estimated to be around 6 to 8 years old, the 9-pound feline has become a beloved figure, known for her friendly demeanor and love of attention. She can often be found sunbathing, rolling on her back, or chasing crickets near the Gator Corner Dining and Tolbert Area of campus.

From Reddit to Instagram Stardom

Tenders' rise to fame began when a UF student, Devon Limcangco, started posting pictures of the cat on Reddit. Noticing the overwhelming response, Limcangco decided to create an Instagram page dedicated to Tenders, which has since amassed over 5,000 followers. The "GatorCats" account not only features Tenders but also raises awareness for missing cats around Gainesville.

Tenders' Microchipping and Community Care

In the spring of 2024, Tenders was microchipped, and Limcangco helped to raise funds for the operation by selling stickers of the cat. This act of community care showcases the dedication of Tenders' supporters, who are committed to ensuring her well-being.

Tenders' Friendly Demeanor and Campus Impact

Tenders' friendly nature has made her a beloved figure on campus. Students often stop to pet her on their way to meals or their dorms, and her presence has provided comfort and joy to many. Limcangco describes Tenders as "abnormally friendly for a cat," noting that she "didn't like being alone" and was "very sweet."

Tenders' Merchandise and Campus Presence

Gator Corner Dining has even promoted a merchandise campaign featuring Tenders' face on tote bags and T-shirts, further solidifying her status as a campus icon. Her friendly demeanor and need for pets have made it impossible for students, faculty, and staff to resist her charm.

The Push for an Honorary Degree

The idea of Tenders receiving an honorary degree from UF was sparked after Vermont State University Castleton awarded a similar honor to their campus cat, Max. Nathaniel Pelton, a UF political science junior and Change Caucus off-campus senator, took the initiative and wrote a bill calling for UF to issue an honorary degree to Tenders.

The Student Government's Response

Pelton's bill, which cited Tenders' contributions to the UF community, was submitted on August 21 and passed unanimously in the Student Senate, with both the Vision and Change senators showing their support. This bipartisan effort demonstrates the widespread appreciation for Tenders and the desire to recognize her impact on campus.

The Challenges Ahead

While the idea of Tenders receiving an honorary degree has garnered significant support, the process is not without its challenges. Honorary degrees are typically reserved for "highly respected academics," and Pelton acknowledges that it will be an uphill battle to secure this honor for the feline. However, he remains hopeful that if Tenders does receive the degree, it would be a positive publicity opportunity for the university.

Tenders' Representation of a Campus Home

Pelton believes that Tenders' honorary degree would help cement her memory and legacy at UF, as she has become the "adopted pet of thousands of students." He sees the degree as a way to celebrate Tenders' role in providing a sense of home and comfort to the UF community.

The Impact on Student Well-being

Meagan Lamey, a UF sustainability studies sophomore and Yulee Area senator, echoes the sentiment that Tenders has helped many students, like herself, find a piece of the home they were missing. Lamey, who comes from a household where she fostered kittens, found solace in Tenders' presence, as it helped relieve her stress and homesickness.

Tenders' Potential to Inspire Change

Lamey also believes that the push for Tenders' honorary degree could be a positive example of how the community can support stray cats on campus. She hopes that this initiative will help change the negative perceptions some may have towards feral cats, showcasing their potential to be helpful and beloved members of the UF community.As the university considers Tenders' case for an honorary degree, the campus community eagerly awaits the outcome. Tenders' journey from a friendly tabby cat to a beloved campus icon has captured the hearts of students, faculty, and staff alike. Whether or not she ultimately receives the prestigious honor, Tenders' legacy as a symbol of comfort, joy, and community at the University of Florida is undeniable.