Meet the Mascots

Mascots at SUNY are leaders in building up our schools' identities and spreading cheer among students, staff, and community all across New York State. We're lucky to have some of the best in the business, but now once again, they compete against each other in the 2024 edition of SUNY Mascot Madness to find out who is the best of the best. Read our interviews with the competitors to learn what makes them each unique and worthy of carrying the title of the New York's favorite and SUNY Mascot Ambassador.

2024 SUNY Mascot Madness Participants:

(alphabetical by school)

Eddy Rondack - Adirondack Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   My name is Eddy Rondack, I'm from Queensbury and I prowl all over campus!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   I treasure the on-campus café named after me, Eddy's Eats!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   The Wolf Den, which would be the student section at our sporting events.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   My howl reaches 120db, more than your average wolf's.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   Any time someone howls, it's a good time.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   I would play basketball. I already rock the jersey and I love the energy our students have at our games.
7. Read any good books lately?
   Algonquin Mythology — boy, did they adore my ancestors.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Chicken bacon ranch
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   Require a Howl Hour at lunch time.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    Bring our students out to the new turf field for a party!!

Damien the Great Dane - University at Albany

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Damien the Great Dane. UAlbany has always been home for me. Fun fact, I'm the only Great Dane mascot in NCAA Division 1!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?br />The Broadview Center. Our newly renovated basketball arena!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   Dog Whispering Club.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   It wouldn't be a hidden talent anymore if I shared!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   UA U KNOW!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   I'm pumped about Women's Rowing being the newest sport at UAlbany. I'm a dog, so I love all water activities. I'm excited to cheer on the team when they begin competition in Fall 2024.
7. Read any good books lately?
   It's not a book, but I just read about 180 years of Greatness at UAlbany. You should read about it too!
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   I'm a dog and I have a big appetite so I like everything. Just not sardines.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I'd make National Great Dane Day (June 12) a system-wide holiday.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I'd throw a big party in the Campus Center and celebrate with students.

Big Blue - Alfred State College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I am Big Blue and I have been the #1 fan of Alfred State since 2018. I live in the woods above campus, and I love watching our students excel in and out of the classroom.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc.) on your campus that you treasure?
   I really enjoy our club sports. Just this year we added a Trap team that finished fifth in the nation. This team fits in perfectly with our archery, equestrian, and woodsmen teams.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   I would love it if we started a classic car club. I look good just walking around campus. Imagine if I was riding around campus in a classic 1908 Model A.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I am a big mascot so people wouldn't think I would be graceful off the diving board. I have mastered the Triple Lindy that Thornton Melon displayed in the movie Back to School.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   I love to hear our students yell, Go Pioneers. It is simple but it always brings smiles and high fives, or high fours for me. 
   What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   I never get asked to play soccer anymore – I love the game but haven't quite figured out how to head the ball without putting a hole in the ball. To get in the game I should become a goalkeeper and rock one of those neon color jerseys. I loved watching our men's soccer team win the conference championship and advance to the National Tournament for the first time this past fall. 
6. Read any good books lately?
   Our drama club put on the play Percy Jackson, Lighting Thief this fall so I read the book before I headed to the Orvis Auditorium to see the play. I enjoyed the first book so much I have kept reading more of the series.
7. Favorite pizza topping?
   I love pizza – especially the great slices served in the Terrace on campus. I love their version of chicken wing pizza, especially during football season. I enjoy it whether I am cheering on the Pioneers or my favorite NFL team the Buffalo Bills.
8. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would start the day at Alfred State and visit as many campuses as possible to give high fours and fist pumps to students. I would want to make people smile and encourage them to keep excelling in their studies.
9. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
   I would head to the Student Leadership Center in the middle of campus with the trophy. I would order a smoothie from Refresh, pour it into the trophy, and let everyone take a sip (I have watched too much NHL hockey). I would want to celebrate with my favorite people – the students of Alfred State.

Baxter Bearcat - Binghamton University

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   My name is Baxter Bearcat and I'm from Binghamton, N.Y. You might know us for our classic lineup of carousels, groundbreaking technological advancements and… marinated cubes of meat. Mmm, spiedies.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   My favorite new treasure on campus is definitely our 84,000-square-foot baseball stadium complex! There's nothing like going out to a ball game with friends and watching our America East Champion baseball team!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   With over 450 clubs and organizations already on campus, we have tons of options! However, I would totally have to form a fan club for our Nobel Laureate Stan Whittingham, inventor of the lithium-ion battery. I love that guy!
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   What's my hidden talent? I thought you'd never ask! I smell like popcorn. As weird as that may sound, it's actually really cool! We Bearcats can communicate by producing scents closely resembling popcorn. So, if you're ever craving a movie night, I'm your go-to mascot!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   Spiedies in hand
   We take our stand,
   Bearcats strong, across the land!
   On game night
   students unite,
   Bearcats win every fight!
   Green and proud,
   we cheer and call,
   Bearcat spirit, loved by all!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   If I were a student-athlete, I'd definitely make a splash with Swimming & Diving! Our men's team was just crowned the 2024 America East Champions, and I'd love to be part of that winning legacy. As for my uniform, it's waterproof – I can swim all day long.
7. Read any good books lately?
   Absolutely! I recently devoured House of Dreams: The Life of L.M. Montgomery by Liz Rosenberg, a brilliant professor right here at Binghamton University. This biography is an incredible journey through Montgomery's life and legacy. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good story about perseverance, creativity, and success!
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   I'm usually a pepperoni kind of cat, but let me tell you, Binghamton isn't short on amazing pizza joints! From traditional favorites to the most unexpected toppings, like pickles, I've tried them all. The variety here exhilarates my sandpaper-like taste buds, and I'm always excited to discover a new winning combination.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   If I were SUNY Chancellor for a day, I would organize a dance competition with every SUNY mascot! I have a feeling I know who would win.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    After being crowned SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024, I would do cartwheels across the Peace Quad, dance all day long to our students' favorite tunes, and host a huge Late Nite party for everyone. The cherry on top: I'd hand out free cupcakes to every student, because sharing this victory with my Bearcat family would make it even sweeter

Ellsworth Eagle - SUNY Brockport

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Ellsworth Eagle, #TheNest, a.k.a. SUNY Brockport, in Upstate, New York
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   Eagle Day (because it's about me, duh!)
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Bird Watching 🔎
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Believe it or not, I'm really good at karaoke. P.S. my go-to song is “I'm Like a Bird,” by Nelly Furtado.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   Anything that our Cheerleading Team chants will get me in the zone!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   Why do you think I already have my own football jersey? #Number1 ☝️Football is the perfect fit & I don't even need to barrow a uniform from my teammates!
7. Read any good books lately?
   Edward Ashton's science fiction novel, Mickey7, is a good read that's in the process of being developed into a film (which also shares a unique tie to Brockport)
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Worms. They taste like pepperoni, but better!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   Take a well-deserved "daycation" — Overseeing 64 college campuses cannot be easy!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    Soar a few Golden Eagles into the sky with me to get a front-row view of the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024 (with their special eclipse glasses on of course) ☀️

Victor E. Bull - University at Buffalo

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   I'm Victor E. Bull, the truest and the bluest ambassador of the University at Buffalo! I hail from Buffalo, New York and I roam the campus spreading cheer. Go Bulls!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   Baird Point! It's the ultimate chill spot on campus where students can unwind, soak in the sunsets over Lake LaSalle and create memories that'll last a lifetime.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   I'd start the Snow Appreciation Club! We would take winter hikes through Letchworth Teaching Forest, build snowbulls and ice sculptures all around campus! Maybe even a sculpture of me!
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet? 
   I've got some serious baking skills! The UB cookies we love and know so well at UB come straight from my kitchen!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   "Horns Up!" It's short, it's snappy and gets the crowd roaring! 🤘
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   I'd dominate in basket-bull! Imagine me in the bluest jersey, a fly pair of sneakers, getting all the Bulls hype!
7. Read any good books lately? 
   My most recent read is Buffalo Everything: A Guide to Eating in the Nickel City. If there's one thing I love about Buffalo, NY, it's the food! We've got wings, beef on weck, sponge candy and more! The pizza culture is like nothing else!
8. Favorite pizza topping? 
   Give me a slice of Buffalo chicken pizza, and I'm one happy bull!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do? 
   I'd implement a SUNY-wide holiday on National Chicken Wing Day, everyone would get off school and work to dine on my all-time favorite food! Now, flats or drums?
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion? 
    If I were named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion, you better believe we'd throw the biggest, wildest celebration this side of the Erie Canal! I'd strut around campus with my head held high, spreading joy to all my fellow Bulls. It'd be a stampede of excitement, and I'd be leading the charge! 

Roody - SUNY Canton

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   My name is Roody. I come from a land down under, but my profession brought me to SUNY Canton.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   I love gaming in our amazing Esports Arena.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   It would probably be a local Hugh Jackman Fan Club. What!? He's the greatest Australian export besides me. Are you guys pumped for his return as Wolverine this summer?
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Don't tell anyone, but when I was a young joey in the outback, I learned how to play the didgeridoo.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   I like when they play Jump or Jump Around on the big speakers. Need I say more?
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   Since I have sick hops, basketball is what I'm best at, though I occasionally slap on some skates and mix it up with our hockey teams. I just need some minor alterations for my tail and we're good to go!
7. Read any good books lately?
   I just read ESPN: One Giant Leap for Fankind. Good read, but it could use more Kangaroos.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   I like dessert pizza with icing on the side. Reminds me of DunkAroos, my favorite snack.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would open up the SUNY Tuition Match program to our Canadian neighbors. We're only a few hops away from the border. Did I mention we're the closest SUNY campus to an international capital?
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I would leap from building to building on campus. There would be lots of high-fives and hugs for everyone that helped me win!

Coby T. Tiger - SUNY Cobleskill

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I am Coby T Tiger from SUNY Cobleskill and I do my mascot “thing” on our campus. From the basketball court to the track, to the equestrian arenas and golf courses!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   One of the most unique things we have on campus are our campus animals! Not only are all of our animals used for educational purposes, but we can go and spend time with any of them whenever we want! From goats to cows to turtles and burying beetles, I know students really value this time as a way to de-stress between studying and classes.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Crocheting Club.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I typically keep this a secret, but I am actually incredibly skilled at crocheting. My claws make it very easy to do this in all of my free time. I especially enjoy making hats, mittens and scarves to keep me warm during the Upstate New York winters.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   "Tiger claw, tiger paw, winning so much should be against the law!"
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   If I were to play a sport it would have to be baseball. When I put on the baseball uniforms, they would probably have to create a "best dressed" award to recognize how well I wear the orange jersey!
7. Read any good books lately?
   Yes! My most recent favorite was Basic Fishing: A Beginners Guide by accomplished author Wade Bourne. I figured I should learn this new skill to start catching my dinners locally! So local that I caught the one in my portrait photo right on campus!
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Pepperoni.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   If I were SUNY Chancellor for a day, I would go exploring other campuses across New York State. Each school is so unique with their own culture and traditions, it is always fun to learn about other schools in SUNY and see how we are all so similar while still being so different!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    If I were to be named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion of 2024, I would celebrate by spending all day in the canine training center petting all of the dogs!

Pawz - Corning Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I'm Pawz, the Red Baron, a bear with a wild spirit rocking it at SUNY Corning Community College. This is where I unleash my mascot magic, hyping up crowds and spreading that college spirit. Born in the heart of nature but I found my true calling at SUNY CorningCC, where I rule as the mascot supreme!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   There's this new maker space that's just epic. It's a playground for creativity, where you can 3D print your dreams. I spend my downtime there, crafting props for the next big game.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   If I had the power, I'd start a "Bear Necessities" club—think survival skills meets modern life hacks. It'd be the ultimate guide to thriving in the wild... and on campus.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Bet you didn't know I can drop a sick beat. Yeah, I'll drop a tune with just my roars. It's my party trick no one's seen... yet.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   "Let's roar, Red Barons, soar high, score more!" It's simple but gets me hyped every time.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   It'd definitely be basketball. Imagine me, a bear, dribbling down the court in a specially tailored pilot suit, soaring high with some dunks.
7. Read any good books lately?
   The jungle book obv!
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Honey. Yeah, you heard right. It's the bear in me. Drizzle that sweet goodness on top, and it's a game changer.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I'd declare a campus-wide "Bear Day" – think outdoor adventures, bear-themed meals, and a massive bear hug rally. Connection and community, that's the goal.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    If I received that title in 2024, I'd throw a campus-wide music festival. Good vibes, dance-offs, and fireworks show to light up the sky. It'd be legendary, celebrating not just me, but all of us at CCC. Because that's what being a mascot's all about—unity, spirit, and wild, unstoppable fun!

Blaze - SUNY Cortland

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I am Blaze, the mighty Red Dragon promoter of SUNY Cortland spirit, defender of Cortland pride and symbol of university greatness. I was born on the barren plain of Mordor and ruled in the Great Hall of Thrain in the dark bowels of Lonely Mountain. Kidding. I'm from Staten Island.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   It's gotta be the Student Life Center: 150,000-square-feet of athletics courts, workout areas, swimming pools, combat rooms, climbing walls and active, happy students. No other campus has anything quite like it.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Among Cortland's many specialties are kinesiology, biological sciences, physical education and exercise science, so I think a minor in dragon anatomy would be a great addition.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Crocheting. I find it keeps my talons nimble. Plus, it is the most recent of the nearly 70 official student clubs on campus.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   C-State! Most powerful two syllables in Division 3 Athletics.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   I'd love to be on our national champion football team, but I'd end up melting the face guard of my helmet whenever I breathed hard. Plus, shoulder pads are murder to fit over wings.
7. Read any good books lately?
   Lately I've been getting into the Game of Thrones novels. Did you know the red dragon in the books is based on me? True story.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Screaming villager. Joking! But I am 100% paleo, so it would be a meat-lover's pizza on a bone meal crust. With anchovies.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would create the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Fire Breathing and then show that reptile from SUNY Oneonta how it's done!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I can fly and exhale smoke, so skywriting a congratulations message over Grady field would be a no brainer.

Blaze the Bronco - SUNY Delhi

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I am Blaze the Bronco, representing SUNY Delhi – a small but mighty technical college in the breathtaking Catskill Mountains! We have the most awesome students and some of the best academic degrees that lead to real jobs! SUNY Delhi started as an agricultural school 110 years ago, and those early farming students nurtured me into the strong, powerful bronco I am today.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   As a college mascot, nothing makes me happier than to see our students smiling and enjoying their college years. That's why I'm excited about some of Delhi's investments in mental health. I don't want anyone to fall through the cracks! Starting this year, our students will have access to 24/7 free online counseling. We're also developing a sensory room for relaxing and re-focusing. You might even catch me in there enjoying the sights and sounds!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   I'd start a new major in Health Studies. Delhi is all about service to others, and New York State needs more workers in the healthcare sector.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Throw an apple or carrot anywhere in my direction, and watch me make the most spectacular leaps and jumps to catch it with my mouth! I never fail!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   “Do the work!” is our favorite chant for the men's basketball team. It gets me pumped up because it's the secret to success with everything in life. Hard work pays off!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   Easy – I would run track! Our student Joshua Jeffes recently ran the third fastest 400m race in NCAA Division III history and currently ranks #1 in the nation. While that's impressive, I'd like to challenge him to a one-on-one race on the college track to see if he can keep up with a galloping bronco!
7. Read any good books lately?
   March is Women's History Month, so I'm currently hoofing through "Winning the Vote: The Triumph of the American Woman Suffrage Movement" because I'm all about exercising our right to vote (wink, wink – don't forget to vote for yours truly!). It's important to learn about our history, grow, and support each other.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   I'm partial to Chicken Bacon Ranch because it reminds me of living on a ranch. It also happens to be one of the Top 3 favorite pizza toppings among students here at Delhi.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would adopt a beagle! When Dr. King visited SUNY Delhi, he fell in love with the beagles in our veterinary science program and couldn't stop cuddling them! I think he needs one of his own!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    As the Mascot Madness Champion, I will stand on my hind legs, kick my hooves, and neigh triumphantly for the whole campus to hear. I will then do victory laps around campus with President Bonderoff on my back and give a “high hoof” to as many of my admirers as I can.

Falco - Dutchess Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?  
   I'm Falco the Falcon! Dutchess Community College's one, only, and best bird on campus. I've lived in Poughkeepsie NY ever since I was a little fledgling, and I'm still finding new things to love about it! I show up for DCC students at all of our events, big and small.  
2. What's a unique new thing on your campus that you treasure? 
   We have a brand-new instant coffee maker on campus, and it gives me the morning boost I need so I can really let out my school spirit! I recommend the mocha latte. 
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   I'd like to start a Geocaching club! With the Hudson River, beautiful mountains, urban areas and there's so much to explore in Upstate NY and I want to share that with DCC students. 
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone yet? 
   Alright, but don't tell anyone else okay? In addition to having a mean alley-oop, I'm also  really good at breakdancing. I haven't shown off my skills yet because, believe me, the other mascots wouldn't stand a chance! And I think they deserve a fair competition. 
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up and why? 
   You want me to pick just one? All of them do! It's hard to not get pumped up when so many people are rooting for your favorite teams. 
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? 
   If I was a student-athlete I would be on the basketball team. I'd have to try so hard not to fly around the court through, that would be a foul for sure. 
7. Read any good books lately? 
   I love to read during my free time. My current reading is The Community, DCC's literary magazine that features poems, essays, and art submitted by students and faculty. I also love browsing the library's new zine section! It full of student work, I love to see how talented everyone is. 
8. Favorite Pizza topping? 
   Definitely grilled chicken and a drizzle of buffalo sauce. It's delicious! … *What? Why are you looking at me like that? 
9. If you were a SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do? 
   I'd retire my jersey, put on a suit, get up to a podium, and declare free textbooks for ALL SUNY STUDENTS! I'd also seek funding for  a big marble statue of myself on DCC's campus. I'm not vain, it's for camaraderie! 
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion In 2024? 
    I'd have a giant parade on campus and invite all of my friends! 

Blue - Empire State University

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I was born in a well-constructed nest tucked into the eaves of SUNY's system administration building in Albany, New York on January 28, 2020. I keep busy traveling the Empire State's 54,556 square miles, stopping at SUNY Empire's locations along the way. I enjoy encouraging students to pursue their academic and personal goals – to spread their wings and fly.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   I treasure our president, Lisa Vollendorf – she's my best friend! Just look at Instagram for proof.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   I've always dreamed of starting an aviation club – flying solo is fun, but sometimes I get lonely up in the skies.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I've been told I'm a talented singer. I'm building an a cappella group that meets and sings in the morning.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   SUNY Empire doesn't have an iconic campus cheer, but I like to jam out to Free Bird by Lynyrd Skynyrd when I want to get pumped up.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   This might be surprising, but I'm a featherweight champion wrestler. My wings are particularly effective in wrapping around an opponent.
7. Read any good books lately?
   My latest favorite is How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Fried worms, of course.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would #TurnontheTAP.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I would write a thank you note to our friends at SUNY and have a celebratory toast with Saratoga water (and a side of gummy worms).

Oakie - SUNY ESF

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I'm Oakie Acorn (they/them), proud representative of ESF and its Mighty Oaks athletic teams! I was “born” when I fell out of ESF's Robin Hood Oak which means my roots go back to the Major Oak in England's Sherwood Forest. Maybe that's why I'm so merry! While most of my mascot duties have me in Syracuse, I also pop in at our Ranger School in Wanakena and our satellite campuses in the Adirondacks and Thousand Islands.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc.) on your campus that you treasure?
   The newly renovated Marshall Hall is wonderful! Open since 1933, Marshall underwent a major two-year reno re-opening in 2023. We kept the classic features, such as the spiral staircase and auditorium, while updating the building to a state-of-the-art learning center with spaces tailored to the needs of today's students. The building is home to our Landscape Architecture, Environmental Studies, and mathematics programs.
   
   Along with great classroom and studio space, there are plenty of study nooks for students to tuck in and do work between classes or meet with friends.
3. If you could start your own club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Wow! Difficult question because ESF has so many unique clubs, activities, and majors already! That said, I'd love to start an a capella group – Oak-apella! I don't speak, but I have a song in my heart and would love to hear ESF students sing. Maybe I could do some interpretive dance while they sing.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Anyone on campus at night might have seen me skateboarding. The other day I landed a kickflip over the gap and was pretty stoked. Sadly, no one was around to see it. Flicks or it didn't happen, right? We do have some talented campus artists who have drawn me and my board though.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up and why?
   (with great enthusiasm) 
   O-A-K-I-E! 
   They're our acorn can't you see? 
   Sprouting strong through day and night 
   We've got bark and we've got bite! 
    
   ESF Orientation Leaders chant this while they lead our newest acorns to convocation. I love hearing it echo off the campus buildings!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete?
   I would join the Bass Fishing team in a heartbeat! I know when you think “acorn,” you think “land-based,” but I'd love to get out on the water and drop a line or two. There's so much more to me than most people know. 
    
   I would look awesome in one of the Bass Fishing team jerseys – provided they could get me an XXXXXL.
7. Read any good books lately?
   The Climate Optimists Handbook by environmental activist Anne Therese Gennari is a great read. Her book is about empowering people to get excited about changing the narrative on climate change so we act from courage and excitement to co-create a better world. She totally gets the ESF vibe! She was our commencement speaker last May and inspired our graduates and their guests to Improve Our World! 
    
   And of course, Braiding Sweetgrass by our own Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer is always close at hand to read again and again!
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Mushrooms. I love to top my pie with things I've foraged in the woods. Remember, you have to be very careful with mushrooms. I always take along a friend who has taken Dr. Alex Weir's mycology course to ensure I don't eat anything that could make me sick or worse!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would declare every day Earth Day in SUNY and plant pollinator gardens on every campus. I would also help other campuses set and reach their own Zero-Waste goals. Sustainability is a key component to helping the environment. I would then ask to be Chancellor for a couple more days to visit as many campuses as possible and see all the great things SUNY students are doing.  I don't know how Chancellor King does it all! Does he ever sleep?
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    The same way I celebrated in 2017 when I won the title – surrounded by the best students, faculty, and staff ever! We had a party that the whole campus attended. My friend, Victor E. Knight from SUNY Geneseo, was gracious enough to come and present me with the trophy and join the festivities. I think it would be great to host Wolfie on campus this year. 

Ram-Bo - Farmingdale State College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   I'm mighty Ram-bo and I'm born and raised on Long Island, NY! I've been proudly repping Farmingdale State College since 1912. 
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   Shoutout to our Office of Student Activities for always keeping our campus buzzing. They always hook us up with fun new activities like karaoke, bingo, DIY nights, food trucks, and even meeting celebs like Eli Manning. I really treasure being able to easily go from class to having fun with my friends. 
   
   I also love riding around campus on our new PedalShare bikes. I can stroll from sports games to campus events, class, and Farmingdale village faster than ever before. 
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   I would start the “Adventure Seekers Society", a club dedicated to exploring the great outdoors, going on thrilling adventures, and discovering the hidden gems of our campus and local area. We'd organize hiking trips to nearby trails, camping weekends, and even adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing.  
   
   But it's not just about the physical thrills—the Adventure Seekers Society would also be all about promoting teamwork among its members. We'd have team-building exercises, leadership workshops, and opportunities for students to develop valuable outdoor skills.  
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet? 
   I've really been getting into acting recently. Our social media team has been making me a part of a lot of their videos and it's been such a blast! People think just because I can't talk or do facial expressions that I wouldn't be able to act. I've been practicing a lot and might be heading to Hollywood soon! 
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   "Go Rams!" It's simple, effective, and never fails to get the crowd going. 
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   I'm a huge basketball fan and would definitely be playing for our men's basketball team. Picture this: I'd be dribbling down the court, bringing the crowd to their feet with every slam dunk and three-pointer!  
   
   Now, let's talk uniform. Lucky for me, I already have my own basketball fit. Since I'm all about representing school spirit, my uniform has our team's name and the number 12 to rep our founding year in our iconic green color. 
7. Read any good books lately? 
   Do magazines count? FSCNow is our very own magazine that highlights all things FSC. I've been reading all about our amazing students, faculty, and alumni. It makes me even more proud to be a Ram, and I hope it does the same for everyone else in our RAMily. 
8. Favorite pizza topping? 
   This might be a hot take, but give me all the veggies! I might be vegetarian, but I'll never turn down a NY slice.  
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do? 
   The first thing I would do is plan a huge party for all the SUNY mascots to get together. It would be a great way to learn from other mascots and rep New York State on a bigger scale. And yes – students are invited! 
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024? 
    That's a no brainer- I would celebrate my win at our annual Fountain Fest with my fellow Rams! It's an awesome event where we kick-off the Spring season and turn on our Ralph Bunche Plaza Fountain. There's tons of games, food, music, and giveaways making it the perfect place for a celebration. 

Stitch - Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Hiya guys! I'm Stitch—Stitch the Tiger. I was born and raised here in New York City, and I do my mascoting all over the FIT campus.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc.) on your campus that you treasure?
   I've discovered that I love doing sculpture. Sure, my fur gets a little dirty, but I love working with my paws. I also love posing as a model for other's art projects.  Everyone here at FIT is so creative and encouraging, and it's awesome to see the students' finished works after I model for them.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   I'd start a weightlifting club! I want everyone at FIT to feel like lifting weights is approachable and to know that it's for everybody. Being strong feels good, and lifting is a grrreat way to keep bones and muscles healthy.
4. What's a hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I haven't told anyone how flexible I am. My neck flexibility is amazing! I can rotate my head 180 degrees.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up? Why? 
   "Let's go, Tigers!" I love this cheer 'cause it always brings out our teams' ferocity.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details about how that sport's uniform would work for you.) 
   I would totally play volleyball! I think it's super fun to chase things that fly, and I want to know what it feels like to be in the heat of a game with teammates.
7. Read any good books lately?
   I was reading the manga Delicious in Dungeon. Going on a hunt, I mean, on an adventure to find delicious food sounds really scrumpti-, oops, really fun.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Pepperoni! I think it's waaaay tastier than wild boar.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I'd make it a free day for everyone to exercise or do any other healthy activity.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I'd thank my awesome team, and then I'd prowl campus and thank everyone for their love and participation in this fun contest. 

Reggie the Raider - Fulton Montgomery Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   I am Reggie the Raider from Fulton Montgomery Community College in Johnstown, NY.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   I treasure the four new Region 3 Titles we most recently won in Volleyball (2022 & 2023) and Men's and Women's Basketball (Both in 2023).
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Snorkeling Major
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Dancing
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   "Let's go Raiders, Let's Go Raiders, FMCC, FMCC!" This gets our student body pumped up.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   I would play soccer. My uniform would consist of new extra large cleats and gloves to play in goal.
7. Read any good books lately?
   The Map Of The World
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Ham and Pineapple
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   Three-day weekends
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    Parade with a big Reggie The Raider Float.

G-Dub and Genni - Genesee Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Our names are G-Dub and Genni! Originally we were only one mascot but then added our friend Genni in when G-Dub got lonely. We mascot at the basketball games, student events, dances and more  
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   We have been working with the prom and boo ball committee to help with the dance contests and work with the offices in helping celebrate our college presidents retirement.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Surviving the wilderness.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I can break dance!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   "C-O-U-G-A-R-S, let's go cougars!"
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   Basketball, we would have gold and blue shorts and jersey plus a sweet head band for all calories we sweat off!
7. Read any good books lately?
   The Cougar conundrum
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Deer
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   Create a no classes day and have a giant college carnival for all with a dunk tank and fireworks! We all need a day off!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    We would have a giant party to celebrate, recognizing all that made this possible and have pizza with music and our other clubs involved to celebrate our amazing mascots and all their accomplishments. 

Victor E. Knight - SUNY Geneseo

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Victor E. Knight, the SUNY Geneseo Mascot, originally from Western New York; however, the location is not as important as the fact that I bleed BLUE. 
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   The return of the Blue Crew!  Geneseo's most dedicated fans.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Knights of the Round Table
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I can ice skate.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   "Gen - A - See - O" - *clap *clap *clap clap clap 
   Because it's a classic and easy to remember
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   Ice hockey because the uniform is a bit like wearing armor and it smells similar to what I wear every day.
7. Read any good books lately?
   I am working my way through the Game Of Thrones Book Sets.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Dragon pepperoni
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   Host a picnic and field day for the SUNY Senior Staff at Letchworth State Park.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I would like a parade down Main Street in Geneseo.

General Herkimer - Herkimer County Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Hello! I am General Herkimer or the Herkimer General depending on who you ask, and I am from the Mohawk Valley region. I was born in a town which is now called Little Falls!  Now I live right on the Herkimer College campus. That's right, they named the college after me! Because of this great honor, I have dedicated my retirement to helping spread the Herkimer College spirit!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   There are so many unique programs and activities here at Herkimer, but I have to say I am especially excited about our new state-of-the-art Esports Center, home to our newest Herkimer Generals athletic team – Esports!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Well, I believe you should learn where you come from to decide where you wish to go. I would be honored if I were to start a historical club for students interested in learning and discussing events and time periods that shaped our culture. We could even have special events on campus to highlight specific time periods, but I'm getting ahead of myself!
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   As a general, I was very proud of leading and directing my loyal troops into battle. I always enjoyed the trumpets that would play during battle. So, in my free time when nobody else was around I would teach myself to play the trumpet.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   Well, here at Herkimer College we take athletics very seriously. Whenever our athletic teams need a jolt of confidence and energy, we stomp our feet and chant H-E-R-K! Herk! Herk! Herk! That always fires me up to see students come together as one to cheer on our favorite Herkimer Generals athletes. Sometimes it's so exuberant the whole ground will shake!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   What a great question! Here at Herkimer, we have one of the best community college athletics programs in the country. There are so many options to choose from, but I would have to say basketball if I had to pick just one. I'm confident that Coach Matt Lee, class of 2000, would lead us to victory, but I may be biased when it comes to fellow Herkimer alums! The uniform might fit a bit snug, but I'm sure somebody makes a 20 XL!
7. Read any good books lately?
   Yes, I'm so happy you asked! I was always an avid reader throughout my life. Right now, I am reading a book titled Painting a Purple Picture – 25 Years Calling Play-by-Play for the Washington Huskies Softball Team by Herkimer College Alum Mike Brown, class of ‘75. An avid sports fan like myself loves a great story about the man behind the golden voice that delivers the game to its fans. You could always visit our library or the Herkimer bookstore for the best new book releases right off the press!
8. Favorite pizza topping
   As a mascot, it is required for me to stay in tip-top shape all year round. However, I do like to indulge in the many pizza places that surround me here in the Mohawk Valley, and my go-to pizza topping would have to be chicken wing! You get pizza and wings all rolled up into one! In this general's humble opinion, it's the best Pizza topping you could have wished for.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would be honored to be Chancellor for the day, although it would be hard to fill the shoes of Chancellor King, I would love to visit the SUNY campuses around my area to check up on all my mascot friends and have them update me on all their exciting accomplishments and achievements because even though we are competitors, we are one SUNY family!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    It would be such an honor for me to be named the SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024. I would have to throw a party for all my fellow mascot competitors as well as my very own Herkimer College family, who make it a pleasure to show up for work every day and support our college!

Victor (the Viking) - Hudson Valley Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   My name is Victor (the Viking)! After jumping ship on a North American voyage hundreds of years ago, I froze in an iceberg that traveled up the Hudson River. I proudly represent and "do my mascot thing" at Hudson Valley Community College, upstate New York's largest community college.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   There are so many things to choose from, but I would have to say Coffee with the President. On one Wednesday every month, all HVCC students, faculty and staff are invited to come together for coffee and breakfast with President Ramsammy. It's a great way to get to know him and other members of the campus community. The bagels and pastries are delicious too!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   I think I would have to establish a shipbuilding or global navigation major. There's no feeling quite like traveling through the open seas, and I think everyone should be equipped to build a 50-foot-long ship and enjoy the voyage.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I'm actually a great chef. In my free time I try to take as many cooking classes as I can at Hudson Valley and its EOC Culinary Arts program. From traditional Viking meals like Gravlax and Pickled Herring to more modern cuisines like pizza and burgers, I can cook for every palette.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   H-V-C-C!!!
   We're the school you want to beat!
   But instead, you'll see defeat!
   And find out, Vikings are the elite!!
   Gooooooo Vikings!!!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete?
   I would definitely join our eSports team. They've been killing it lately, and it's one of the fastest growing sports around. Or, maybe I'd dust off my bowling shoes and watch my ball roll straight into the gutter. Wait, I meant roll straight into all ten pins. STRIKE!
7. Read any good books lately?
   I'm always looking for a good book to read in the Marvin Library. From history to biographies to romance, they have every genre of book you could imagine. Right now, I'm reading The Age of the Vikings by Anders Winroth and Twilight by Stephanie Meyer. #TeamJacob
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Pineapple. I said what I said!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would order a theme park to be built on every campus to give students a place to have fun in between classes. I'm no accountant, but it seems like a small investment for a TON of fun!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I would team up with President Ramsammy to throw a big campus-wide party over the summer! We would invite all students, faculty and staff, and a few of my mascot friends, like SouthPaw from the Valley Cats. There would be lots of food, snacks and fun games for everyone! 

JJ Jayhawk - Jamestown Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   My name is JJ Jayhawk. I come from the Enchanted Mountains of southwest New York state. I make my living these days nearby at our Jamestown Community College locations in Jamestown, Olean, and Dunkirk.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   I love gliding up to the roof of the Science Center on our Jamestown Campus to hang out and get away from the hustle and bustle of college life for a few minutes. With an outdoor garden and greenhouse, it is the perfect location to destress and take in all the sights and sounds of campus below.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   I'd love to start a bird-watching club. Although I adore the people on our campuses so much, on occasion I miss seeing all my friends hanging out in the sky and trees. It would be terrific to introduce my human friends to my bird friends.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I'm exceptional at computer programming. Self-taught. I do contract work for Microsoft, Apple, and Google when I'm not cheering at games and supporting our students at campus events.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   The chant of "Let's go Jayhawks!" always gets a rise from feathers.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete?
   I'm pretty good at basketball. When the campus is dark and quiet and everyone is sleeping, I'll wander down to the gym and shoot hoops all night. I'm good at dunking, too. I can fly through the air better than Michael Jordan could in his prime.
7. Read any good books lately?
   One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. I want to see the movie, too.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Anchovies.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I would visit as many other SUNY colleges as I could to make new friends.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I would party with all those who helped make it happen – my best friends on campus and all the little people who never get enough credit. 

Tiberius the Tribune - Monroe Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   I am Tiberius the Tribune, the proud mascot of Monroe Community College! Originally, I hail from the heart of Rochester, New York. You can catch me spreading school spirit and excitement all over MCC's campuses!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   The new Esports lounge is a treasure on our campus. It provides a vibrant space for gamers to connect, compete, and build community.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   I would love to start either an Improv club to spark creativity and laughter or a Mascot club to unite fans and promote school spirit.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet? 
   Well, let's just say I'm quite the salsa dancer! It's a skill I've been perfecting in secret, ready to surprise everyone at the next pep rally!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   "We areMCC, hey, hey, hey! Together, strong in every way! Go, Tribunes, let's unite!" 
   This chant fuels my spirit as I rally our MCC community. It's not just about cheering for our college; it's about embodying the strength and unity of our Tribunes. With each energetic shout, we amplify our pride, camaraderie, and determination to triumph together. 
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   Ifl were a student-athlete, I'd dominate in track and field events. My uniform would feature the MCC colors with a custom-designed set of runnmg armor.
7. Read any good books lately? 
   Recently, I delved into Rochestemomics: Why, Statistically Speaking, You Should Live in Rochester, NY by Amol Shrikhande, uncovering fascinating insights about our city's unique appeal. 
8. Favorite pizza topping? 
   My go-to pizza topping is definitely extra cheese. You can't go wrong with a classic cheesy delight!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do? 
   Ifl were SUNY Chancellor for a day, I'd declare a campus-wide "Mascot Madness" day! Imagine mascots from all SUNY campuses coming together for a day of friendly competition, games, and spirited performances. It would be a celebration of school pride and unity, showcasing the unique character and energy of each mascot. Plus, who doesn't love a good mascot dance-off? 
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    Hosting a campus-wide "Tribune Day" celebration with games, giveaways, and special events to honor our MCC community and showcase our school spirit.

Leo the Lion - Nassau Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   ROAR! I'm Leo the Lion from Long Island, the official mascot of Nassau Community College and its 25 intercollegiate athletic teams. I was born on January 3, 1899 when Nassau County adopted me as its Coat of Arms. I symbolize fierceness, bravery and wisdom.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   I'm really excited about our new E-Sports Marketing major! Learning from industry experts is a fantastic way to turn your passion for sports and digital technology into a career. Plus, you can compete in college and university-level tournaments through the NJCAA Nassau Lions Esports Team.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   I would establish a “Leo's Pride” Fan Club, where passionate Nassau Lions sports enthusiasts could unite and attend all sporting events together. We would coordinate our outfits and truly ignite the crowd's spirit, especially at our hometown fields of Mitchel Athletic Complex and Eisenhower Park.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Poetry. The occasional haiku is an excellent way to express yourself and show your sensitive side.  
   Leo's regal roar 
   Nassau takes the lead once more 
   Victory, our core
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   "Orange and navy, lion pride, let's roar loud, let's reach high! With courage bold and spirit bright, we'll conquer all, with all our might. Go Lions, go!"
   
   This campus cheer embodies Nassau's spirit, combining our vibrant colors, majestic lion mascot (me!), and the determination to excel. It's our rallying cry that ignites passion, unity and excitement among our team, alumni and community, fueling us to achieve greatness together.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   As Nassau's versatile college mascot, I would thrive as a three-sport athlete, dominating the field, court and arena throughout the school year. With my agility, strength and fierce determination, I'd lead my team to victory with every match.
   
   Now, let's talk about the uniform. Given my lion physique, my uniform would need to be specially designed to accommodate unique features of big muscles and a tail. No special footgear is required. My paws were made for speed and precision. My jersey will proudly display number “59,” the founding year of Nassau Community College.
   
   So, opponents beware, because when I step onto that field, I'm not just a lion - I'm a force to be reckoned with!
7. Read any good books lately?
   I just finished Kobe Bryant's The Mamba Mentality, a must read for any athlete serious about the game like I am.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   I'm a Lion. I like meatballs, sausage, bacon and pepperoni - now I'm hungry!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   As the honorary Chancellor, I would declare a “Paws and Reflect” afternoon where everyone gets a chance to unwind, recharge, and reflect on their achievements and dreams. After all, even ferocious Lions need their cat naps.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    Being named 2024's Mascot Madness Champion would call for an epic party. All my other mascot friends are invited. On the field or court, we may be fierce competitors but we're all a part of the SUNY athletics family… and that Acorn from up north really knows how to party!

Hugo the Hawk - SUNY New Paltz

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   Hey guys, what's up! I'm Hugo the Hawk from SUNY New Paltz. I was born in the gorgeous Shawangunk Mountains, just a few minutes away from the New Paltz campus. I've been here ever since – this is where I learned how to soar!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc.) on your campus that you treasure?
   I have to go with a classic here, because when it comes to “unique” there's nothing quite like our campus Atrium! The glass pyramid welcomes people to campus and has a bunch of good study spaces and spots to eat, and the Hawks Nest on the second floor has some of the best views on campus!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   Well, there are already something like 200 student clubs at New Paltz, so I think we're covered there. But not enough people around here know how to fly, so I think maybe a Bachelor of Arts in Aviation? It's an important life skill!
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   I can whistle with my beak! We've got 16 varsity sports teams at New Paltz, and if you listen closely at our games you can hear me doing my thing!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   Go Hawks! Go Hawks! Gooooooo Hawks! Nothing like the last go to get you pumped up to win 🏆
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete?
   Well I'm a high-flyer, so I feel like basketball is where I could really show my potential. But I would need special kicks to fit over my claws!
7. Read any good books lately?
   Oh sure, I read all the time. Lately I've been getting back into the classics: Jane Air, Moby-Beak, The Adventures of Hawkleberry Finn, The Illiegg, Great Nestpectations, Glide and Prejudice, that sort of thing.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   Anything but chicken! 😳
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   I want to hand out the degrees at Commencement! SUNY is all about helping students succeed, and everybody always looks so happy at graduation. It would be such an honor to be part of something like that!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    Have you seen me dance? Do you even need to ask?

Red - SUNY Oneonta

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   I'm Red, a fierce but friendly dragon from SUNY Oneonta, located in the beautiful "City of the Hills"—Oneonta, NY. 
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   Good question. Right now, I'm fired up about our campus' new geothermal wells! Alumni Hall was the first building on campus to use them as the main source of heating and cooling. Now we have a second building following suit, and its test well was just drilled to 750 feet, the first on any SUNY campus at that depth! While I'm all about sustainability and reducing campus carbon emissions, I also selfishly enjoy being able to sneak down there and take a little dragon nap—I feel right at home.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   We already have my dream club (the Outdoor Adventure Club, which goes caving and spelunking) and my dream majors (earth science and geology), so I'm one happy dragon.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Everybody knows I can dance, shoot hoops, fly, hype up a crowd and give the best hugs and high-fives, but did you know I can really throw down in the kitchen? The whole breathing fire thing definitely helps.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   "Here we go, O!" I don't personally speak, but that one always gets the crowd going when our awesome Oneonta State Cheerleading Team takes the floor!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   Oh you already know—Basketball! I could dunk on EVERYONE.
7. Read any good books lately?
   I'm a busy dragon but I always find time for reading. When I need a good comfort read, I turn to my trusty old fantasy favorites: anything by J.R.R. Tolkien or Christopher Paolini. There are also a good number of Red Dragon faculty, staff and alumni authors, so I have a long reading list.
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   COLD-CHEESE PIZZA, all day!! Invented in Oneonta—and let me tell you, it will change your life. If you haven't tried it, you need to, and then you'll be able to cast your vote in the longstanding “which-Oneonta-pizzeria-has-better-cold-cheese” debate.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   In a devious plot, I would officially declare SUNY Oneonta the best SUNY school and make everyone in the SUNY system transfer here hehe! We'd have to build a bigger campus, but wouldn't it be fun to have nearly 400,000 Red Dragons around?!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    When I won Mascot Madness in 2021, the world was still being cautious in regard to COVID and gathering protocols, so we had to celebrate virtually. If I won again in 2024? I'd throw the biggest party you've ever seen, including a parade through campus.

Colt - Orange County Community College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Colt, born and raised in Orange County NY and a proud representative of Orange County Community College.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   The new faces on the first days of the semester and the new SUNY Orange Men's Basketball banner.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   The Equestrian Appreciation Society: a club where we discuss everything horses. Free hay at every meeting is a must.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Galloping on two back legs while dribbling a basketball between them. Lookout Wolfie, next time I see you, I'm dunking on you.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   "Let's go Colts!" because it has my name in it.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   It's going to have to be Baseball. This brings up a question I get a lot about how horses get dressed every morning, so I'm glad you asked….  The pants would need to be turned into shorts, because I'm a horse and my proportions don't really work for pants. We actually do wear shirts, so a button up jersey…. size 25XL. Top that off with a classic SUNY Orange Colts baseball cap. No cleats…I run better without them.
7. Read any good books lately?
   All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy. Especially all of the parts where they talk about running on the range. My cousin was actually in the movie, his name was Dave, but they billed him as "Horse 1"... kind of messed up if you ask me.  
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   "Yeah let me get a large pie, extra pepperoni, some carrots, and extra hay on top"
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   Mandatory haybales in the cafeteria and free tours of my farm…led by me…for me.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    YOU ALREADY KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS.  THE WHOLE CAMPUS IS COMING TO MY FARM. I'M TALKING UNLIMITED HAY, RUNNING, BARREL RACING, AND OF COURSE FREE CARROTS ALL YEAR.

Burghy - SUNY Plattsburgh

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing?
   Hi, I'm Burghy! I am from Plattsburgh, New York and do my mascot thing at SUNY Plattsburgh.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure?
   Did you hear that our gym, Memorial Hall, just finished an extensive renovation?! I get a bird's eye view of students doing all sorts of cool stuff like playing in the rec gym and watching athletes compete in our varsity gym. There's even a rock wall and dance studios for students to exercise in! This part of my campus has really been bringing all my favorite people together, plus there are SO many pictures of me all over the place. They really know how to make a Cardinal feel special.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be?
   If I could start my own major, it would definitely be Mascot Studies. This would educate anyone to be an expert in all things, me!  We would learn how to fly, cheer on our Cardinals, and be at every campus and community event.
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet?
   Don't tell anyone, but I am a very good ice skater. Not as good as President Enyedi though, he played ice hockey in college and out skates me every time.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why?
   We don't have a campus cheer yet because our students have so much energy that just getting a high five from them PUMPS ME UP - go Cards!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you)
   I know Coach Moffat would put me on the men's ice hockey roster because the team actually already made me a jersey. I am number 1, obviously! 
7. Read any good books lately?
   A good book that I've read is the magazine run by SUNY Plattsburgh's journalism students called Do North. 
8. Favorite pizza topping?
   My favorite pizza topping has to be birdseed.
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   If I were SUNY Chancellor for a day, I would give everyone a 4 day work week!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    If I was to be named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion, I would host a Burghy Bash for all students, staff and faculty. I would even invite all the Plattsburgh community to join me.

Perseus the Panther - Purchase College

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   Perseus the Panther from Purchase College
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   My two new athletic trainers! They keep me and my student-athletes in tip-top shape!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   I can't wait to join the brand new Esports team and Cheese Club on campus. Some competition with a snack!
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet? 
   Pretending I am Batman, as I sneak up on opponents from the shadows.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   Protect the Den and Roll Kitties! They get me hyped because my student-athletes came up with them.
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   While I adore all 17 programs at Purchase, golf has always been my calling because it gets me closet to my true love - being in nature. As for a uniform … I am more skilled than you'd think at getting a polo and khakis on.
7. Read any good books lately? 
   The Jungle Book - Bagheera is my idol!
8. Favorite pizza topping? 
   Sausage, Pepperoni, Bacon - anything with meat!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do?
   Make SUNY tuition free for all NYS residents, so everyone can experience the amazing institutions we have to offer.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    A gatorade shower obviously! But not on me, I don't like to get wet. I'd shower my Athletic Director instead.

Wolfie Seawolf - Stony Brook University

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   Hi! I'm Wolfie and I'm from Stony Brook University. I spend most of my time on Long Island and in New York City, but I travel all around the state and country, too. Last year I got the opportunity to travel to DC (I am going again this year), and this year I was at Disney competing in a national mascot competition, where I placed 5th in the country!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   It has to be the Mount Stony Brook Observatory—it's our telescope on top of the Earth and Space Sciences building, which we use for research and teaching during the semester. We also have an astronomy club that gets to use the telescope for fun! I love looking out into deep space and seeing just how small we really are. I'm usually so big and strong, but looking at space makes me feel small.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   I would start a baking club! I love baking, and my friends really appreciate a sweet treat at the end of the day. There's nothing I love more than being able to create something tasty for my friends to eat; it's such an amazing way to show your love for people!
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet? 
   I can do a backflip! If we get far enough in Mascot Madness, maybe I'll show everyone just how good it is. I can only flip when I get realllly excited!
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   My favorite cheer has to be the Stony Brook Fight Song. It never fails to get the crowd hyped up!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   Well, I already am a student-athlete! I'm a member of the cheer and rowing teams. I've also always wanted to try my hand at sailing, skydiving, and swimming. I'm a Seawolf, so I think I would do great at sports in the water… and I already have a swim suit!
7. Read any good books lately? 
   I just finished rereading The Art of War. I think using some of the tactics included will help me to win Mascot Madness for the third time in a row. After that, you might as well crown me the supreme ruler of SUNY Mascots. Why even have the other ones? 
8. Favorite pizza topping? 
   I've recently grown fond of devouring acorns, I bet they would go particularly well on pizza…
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do? 
   AWOOOOOOOOOOOO 
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    If I become Mascot Madness champion again this year, I'll take a few weeks to play golf and hang out at the beach. After I secure my historic three-peat, I'll finally be able to rest!

Walter the Wildcat - SUNY Polytechnic Institute

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   I'm Walter the Wildcat from SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Utica, NY!
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   Our new campus president – Dr. Winston "Wole" Soboyejo!
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   I would start a music club, so I can become a Meow-sician!
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet? 
   Did you know I can juggle?
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   SUNY Poly doesn't have a campus cheer – but nothing gets me pumped up more than seeing all the innovation among SUNY Poly students!
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   I love playing soccer!
7. Read any good books lately? 
   The Secret Life of Cats.
8. Favorite pizza topping? 
   Nothing is better than a slice of Tomatoe Pie!
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do? 
   I would encourage all SUNY students to take a catnap when they need it!
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I would celebrate with a bowl of Chicken Riggies (It's a Utica delicacy) and hang out with my fellow Wildcats!

Hero the Wolf - SUNY Upstate Medical University

1. Who are you, where are you originally from, and where do you do your mascot thing? 
   I am Hero the Wolf, the mascot for SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse. Wolves like me are native to the region, dating back to when the glaciers melted. I don't date back quite that far, having arrived in 2021 during the Covid pandemic. I was named in honor of the staff, faculty and students of SUNY Upstate who stepped forward to help here in Central New York and who volunteered to help in Metro New York when the health system there was badly stretched.
2. What's a unique new thing (building, club, activity, employee, etc) on your campus that you treasure? 
   There is so much to be proud of at Upstate, but if I had to name one thing, it would be our growing research efforts. Our recently opened Office of Research for Medical Students is connecting more students to our researchers. Research spending has been climbing steadily, passing $50 million a year recently. SUNY Upstate research touches on all parts of the body, and through our Global Health Institute and facilities in Africa and South America, targets cures and treatments for tropical illnesses.
3. If you could start your own new club or major on campus, what would it be? 
   Hmmmm, maybe we could add veterinary medicine?
4. What's your hidden talent that you haven't told anyone about yet? 
   While wolves in the wild tend to shy away from people, I really enjoy spending time with students and patients, especially patients in our Golisano Children's Hospital. So, I guess my hidden talent is that I don't hide.
5. What campus cheer gets you pumped up & why? 
   You know what? Upstate doesn't have a cheer. Maybe we can change that. How about? 
   "Rah, rah, ree, learn anatomy!  
   Rah, rah, ranner, perfect your bedside manner!"  
   (Maybe that needs some work.)
6. What sport would you play if you were a student-athlete? (Feel free to share details of how the uniform would work for you) 
   As an upper-division and graduate school, we don't have varsity sports. We have all sorts of student clubs and activities – including comedy nights, formals and trips to watch local sports teams — and you'll see our future doctors and health professionals taking part in all the recreational opportunities Central New York has to offer among our lakes, trails, mountains and rivers. I love spending time outside, then coming inside and curling up for a nap.
7. Read any good books lately?
   I could not put down Janice P. Nimura's The Doctors Blackwell: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to Women and Women to Medicine. Elizabeth Blackwell was the first woman in America to be awarded an MD. She got it from Geneva Medical College which eventually became our own SUNY Upstate Medical University. We're proudly celebrating the 175th anniversary of becoming the first coed medical school in America. Those Blackwell sisters are inspiring students still today.
8. Favorite pizza topping? 
   Make mine a garlic pizza, please! And, if I might, can I have a side order of Utica greens?
9. If you were SUNY Chancellor for a day, what would you do? 
   Between balancing budgets, ensuring great education at a reasonable cost and helping to drive the state's economy, the SUNY chancellor has one tough job. I'd probably read a few emails then curl up for a nap before I did anything that might make his job harder the next day.
10. How would you celebrate being named SUNY Mascot Madness Champion in 2024?
    I'd lope all over the campus sharing the honor with all our students, the doctors, nurses and other caregivers who make SUNY Upstate work — from the radiation treatment rooms deep down to the level 1 trauma center to the busy helicopter landing pad on the roof, with a special stop with those adorable kids at Golisano Children's Hospital. After that I'd probably curl up for a nap. Anyone else feel like a nap?