From 1989 to 1996, Saundra Roper—better known as Capt. Peper— brought the skies to life as the pilot of Florida State University's official hot air balloon, the “Seminole Spirit.” With its vibrant colors soaring above FSU home games, the balloon became a symbol of pride. But Roper’s journey didn’t stop there—she took the Seminole Spirit to new heights, competing in the National Hot Air Balloon Championships in Baton Rouge in 1990 and 1991, and flying across the country in breathtaking locales, including a flight over Niagara Falls. The balloon also carried some of FSU’s most distinguished figures, including President “Sandy” D’Alemberte. Recently, Roper’s granddaughter honored this legacy by donating a remarkable collection of “Seminole Spirit” photographs—one of which is featured here—offering a glimpse into a little-known part of FSU history.

Submitted by: Taylor Henning, FSU Special Collections & Archives