College Colors Day is an annual celebration dedicated to promoting the traditions and spirit that make the college experience great by encouraging people across America to wear apparel of their favorite college or university throughout the day.

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal officially issued a proclamation declaring Sept. 2 that day to help promote the school spirit among all universities and colleges. Pounce represented GSU in the event at the State Capitol on Aug. 23.

Additionally, College Colors Day, which coincides with "back to school" and the kick-off of intercollegiate athletics, strives to advocate higher education through increased public awareness, and celebrates the achievements of colleges and universities, acknowledging their fundamental importance.

Since its inception in 2005, College Colors Day has grown rapidly across the country. Thousands of organizations and millions of individuals participate annually by donning their team colors and sharing in the college spirit with friends and colleagues.

Friday, Sept. 2 is 2011's national College Colors Day for all schools to wear their school colors. That coincides perfectly for Georgia State because that is the exact day of the football season opening game at the Georgia Dome.

GSU will provide 5,000 free special Bleed Blue t-shirts for students that night at the Dome. All fans are stronly encouraged to wear blue to the season opening game.

Tailgating starts early outside the Dome, then Coach Bill Curry's Panthers will kick off at 7:30 against the cross town Clark Atlanta Panthers. The PantherZone tailgate area has been moved to the Brown Lot. The PantherZone is the designated area for games, contests, entertainment and game day giveaways as part of the tailgating. The Orange Lot remains a headquarters for alumni and other tailgating activities. Come early and join the tailgate fun.

Join in the celebration of national College Colors Day.