University of the Pacific and the San Francisco 49ers kicked off their new education partnership with a surprise announcement on the Don and Karen DeRosa University Center lawn Friday.

The kickoff celebration included appearances from Pacific’s Powercat, Pep Band and Cheer and Dance team and the 49ers’ Sourdough Sam, Gold Rush cheer team and Niners Noise drumline.

Pacific President Christopher Callahan and Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Gretchen Edwalds-Gilbert were joined by the 49ers’ Chief People Officer Harpreet Basran and Vice President of Corporate Partnerships Kevin Hilton who shared how the two institutions will work together over the next five years, exchanged team jerseys and officially launched the partnership with a burst of confetti.

Hundreds of students, faculty, staff, prospective students and families and community members gathered on the lawn to hear the announcement, followed by a celebratory gathering with field games, snacks and giveaways.

The 5-year academic partnership will provide Pacific students with hands-on learning and internship opportunities with the 49ers. The two organizations will also work together to support K-12 education and promote college readiness in Northern California.