May 2011: Mascots

Mascots, by Oxford Dictionary definition, are created to bring good luck, but what is the purpose for one at a university without a team? Mascots, by function, serve to help identify, unify and rally fans and followers. Now there is a reason for a university without a team to have a mascot. UHCL is in the process of selecting a mascot, and you have a chance to vote.

The committee process seeks to engage UHCL’s varied audiences in an effort to select a mascot that represents well the university, students, faculty members, staff and alumni. That is a tall task, considering the incredible range of backgrounds, experiences, achievements and lives that the extended university family comprise. It is this same diversity of stories that calls for a unifying symbol, icon or representation. Enter the mascot search.

UHCL has had mascots before. Sort of. The history of the university’s search for a unifying symbol or character charts well a young university in search of an identity. I imagine that would be a challenge for a fledgling institution that has no real history, nor understanding of the people who made it what it is. But now, with more than 36 years of experience and more than 50,000 alumni, the university’s image and identity are more clear, as evidenced in the lives of the people — students, faculty members, staff and alumni. We, as a group, have our stories, so now the university can pick a mascot that resonates with the history and the future.

You are part of that identity, and we hope to hear from you. You are part of those stories, and we hope to represent you well in our deliberations. Join the fun and share your vote by May 6!

	Dion McInnis Associate Vice President for University Advancement McInnis@uhcl.edu, 281-283-2018
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