How to Request a Visit from Lightning

Lightning, the beloved mascot of Middle Tennessee State University, has a busy schedule. But he loves getting out amongst his fans at whenever possible. Lightning is typically invited to events for meet-and-greets; pictures; classroom and campus activities; and public events and festivals.

Fees are almost always required, as students are hired to serve as Lightning and in his support team. However, those fees may be waived at the discretion of the University for a very limited number of non-profit and campus organization events depending upon availability and the nature of the event. 

You can request an appearance by Lightning by using the “Request Lightning at Your Event” button below. Please include your name, phone number and a brief description and date of the event you wish for Lightning to attend.

 Scheduling

• We encourage requests be made at the earliest possible time.
• You will be sent via email confirmation that your request has been received, and we may request additional information about your event at this time.
• You will be notified if your event has been approved or cannot be accommodated.
• If your request is approved, you will receive a confirmation email verifying appearance details and charges. Campus organizations will be invoiced internally. Outside organizations will receive an invoice via email with instructions on the payment process.
• Not all requests can be fulfilled, due to time restraints and availability.
• Please know that events requested during weekdays while our students are in class may not be granted due to limited availability and their priority as a student first. Our students will not be asked to skip class for an appearance.
• Events requested during home athletic events must be on campus.
• Events requested during Summer Session will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as we do not mandate Lightning or his team to remain on campus during that term.  

Appearance Fees and Cancelations

• A University representative will discuss appearance fees after a request for appearance has been made.
• On the rare instance that we cannot fulfill a confirmed request, your appearance fee will be fully refunded.
• All appearance fees must be paid prior to your event. Appearances are not considered confirmed until the payment is received.
• Lightning and his handlers may at any time cancel an event if they feel uncomfortable with the venue, the behavior of the guests, and/or if there is not a suitable place to change clothes and safely store their personal items, or any other situation that makes them feel unsafe or uneasy.

Time Restrictions

• Outdoor events may require that Lightning takes breaks for water and cooling down.

Parking, Event and Travel Expenses

• If applicable, all parking fees must be covered for the event or free parking spots provided. 
• If you invite Lightning and his handlers, you pay for his event ticket and any admissions fees.
• Travel fees will apply to all off-campus appearances. Mileage is consistent with the IRS standard mileage rate.

Changing Room

• Lightning and his handler(s) will need a secure location for Lightning to change. It must be away from guests and made secure so they may store belongings.

Appearance Set Up

• To honor existing University contracts and commitments, the requesting party must agree to take all necessary steps to ensure that the University does not appear to directly support, endorse, or sponsor the event organizer or any of its direct sponsors, unless prior approval have been granted by the University.
• If alcohol is being served while Lightning is at your event, our team must be stationed away from the area where it is being served. Also, please note that if guests become rowdy or inappropriate, these students are instructed to leave immediately, and no refund will be provided.