Fri Jan 09 03:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Della Davidson Elementary School Celebrates Ole Miss Spirit with Fiesta Bowl Tailgate

The Story:

Della Davidson Elementary School in Oxford, Mississippi, transformed its hallways into a Grove-inspired tailgate on January 8, 2026, celebrating the Ole Miss Rebels’ Fiesta Bowl appearance. Laurie Beth Ellis, a third-grade teacher and Ole Miss alumna, spearheaded the event, which aimed to introduce students to university traditions and foster a sense of community. The celebration featured decorations, snacks, cheers, and student-designed Ole Miss buttons, culminating in a school-wide recess tailgate experience.

The event highlighted the deep-seated connection between the university and the local community, allowing students to express their “Hotty Toddy” spirit and learn about Ole Miss’s traditions in a fun, engaging environment.

Key Points:

  • Laurie Beth Ellis, a third-grade teacher, organized the Grove-inspired tailgate.
  • The event featured Ole Miss decorations, snacks, and student-created buttons.
  • Students expressed their understanding of “Hotty Toddy” and Ole Miss traditions.
  • The tailgate extended to the entire school, involving all students and teachers.
  • The family of Theodore Cutcliffe, a second-grader, has deep roots in Ole Miss football; his grandfather, David Cutcliffe, coached the Rebels from 1999 to 2004.

Critical Analysis:

The event’s timing, just before the Fiesta Bowl (January 8, 2026), and the simultaneous events (Hotty Toddy Drone Show Hits the Jackpot in Vegas, Daily Jigsaw: Hotty Toddy Sugar Bowl) suggest a coordinated, multi-faceted effort to boost Ole Miss spirit and brand recognition on a national level. The emphasis on tradition and community, as highlighted by the school event, complements the broader promotional activities, creating a unified message of pride and engagement.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ole Miss is actively cultivating its brand and traditions through community outreach.
  • The university leverages events like the Fiesta Bowl to engage with students and families.
  • The school’s initiative highlights the close relationship between the university and the local community.
  • The multi-pronged approach (school events, drone shows, etc.) indicates a strategic marketing plan.

Impact Analysis:

This initiative reinforces the enduring link between Ole Miss and its surrounding community, cultivating a future generation of fans and potential students. By instilling a sense of belonging and pride at a young age, the university is strengthening its long-term brand loyalty and ensuring the continuation of its traditions. The celebration may promote school spirit, community engagement and create lasting connections and future students.

Read More