Bear Family Mascots
Brown University - Bruno the Bear
Brown University’s mascot is a bear named Bruno, chosen after experiences with a small donkey and a live bear named Helen. Bruno, selected in 1921, embodies bravery, intelligence, and independence, making it a beloved symbol among students.
Cornell University - Touchdown the Big Red Bear
Touchdown, an unofficial mascot at Cornell, was a black bear adopted in 1915. It brought good luck to the football team and became a cherished symbol, even though the official mascot application was unsuccessful.
University of California, Berkeley - Oski the Bear
Oski, a golden bear, made its debut in 1941. Originally intended to be portrayed by a real bear, it transformed into a student-played mascot, becoming a source of pride for Berkeley.
University of California, Los Angeles - Joe & Josephine Bruin Bear
As UCLA’s counterpart to Berkeley’s golden bear, Joe and Josephine Bruin Bear represent the school’s vitality and unity. Originally featuring a real bear, they are now portrayed by students in costume, dancing and cheering together.
Cat Family Mascots
Princeton University - The Tiger
Princeton has embraced the tiger as its mascot since the 1880s, symbolizing intelligence, agility, and bravery that resonates with the qualities of its students.
Columbia University - Roaree the Lion
Columbia’s Roaree lion, initially chosen in 1910, pays homage to the British royal symbol, signifying strength and royalty. The lion is proudly displayed in Columbia’s emblem.
Northwestern University - Willie, the Wild Cat
Northwestern University opted for a wildcat as its mascot, symbolizing the football team’s tenacity and perseverance. Willie, introduced in 1933, reflects the resilient spirit of a wildcat.
Dog Family Mascots
Yale University - Handsome Dan
Yale’s mascot, Handsome Dan, a bulldog, has been part of the school’s tradition since 1892. It parades through the field before every baseball and football game, a ritual believed to bring confidence and good luck.
Carnegie Mellon University - Scotty, the Scottish Terrier
CMU’s mascot, Scotty, a Scottish Terrier, has a connection to the university’s founder, Andrew Carnegie, who once owned a Scottish Terrier. The terrier’s resilience and intelligence mirror the qualities of CMU students.
Northeastern University - Paws, the Husky
Initially named King Husky in 1927, Northeastern’s husky symbolizes loyalty and tenacity. In 2003, the mascot was renamed Paws, continuing to inspire students with its commitment.
Avian Family Mascots
University of Chicago - Phoenix
The University of Chicago adopted the phoenix, symbolizing rebirth from adversity. The phoenix reflects the university’s historical struggles and eventual resurgence, serving as an inspiration to students.
Boston College - Baldwin the Eagle
Boston College chose the eagle as its mascot, representing majesty, strength, and freedom. The selection originated from a victorious short-track skating competition in 1920, instilling pride in the BC community.
Aquatic Family Mascots
University of Florida - Albert and Alberta the Alligators
The University of Florida’s mascot is a pair of alligators named Albert and Alberta. Representing the rich wetland ecosystem of Florida, these mascots also symbolize the school’s sportsmanship and respect for the environment. Albert and Alberta frequently make appearances at sporting events and campus activities, injecting energy and joy into the University of Florida.
To be continued…
A Friendly Reminder
These mascots each have rich histories and symbolic meanings, becoming integral parts of campus culture and serving as sources of inspiration for their respective schools. Whether representing resilience, royalty, or freedom, each mascot contributes to the vibrancy and honor of its school. When choosing a mascot, considering these iconic examples from various universities can provide valuable insights.
