Increased polar bear sightings on campus

Submitted by Tammy Tragis -McCook
Phone: (907) 474.1103
03/01/05

If you’ve been to a UAF hockey game lately, you may have noticed that the UAF bear clan has multiplied. The Nanook family has expanded to include two new bears.

The "newborn" bears are actually student volunteers participating in the UAF Bear Mascot program. They are being trained by veteran bears and UAF employees, Darren "Bear"? Edson and Ted Hetrick.

The Bear Mascot Program was recently created to involve more students in UAF academic and athletic events. The mascots also make appearances at local schools and community events.

"Everyone, and I mean everyone, of all ages loves the mascots. To me, being the mascot is a huge responsibility." says Edson. "I see the program going forward and a mascot at every event on campus."

A pool of student volunteers fulfills the various appearance requests. But first they have to pass "Bear 101."? The special workshop teaches fledging bears the basics: costume care, dramatic movements and techniques for keeping fans involved.

Students say being a bear has renewed their school spirit. "It’s about more than the bear; it’s about being a totem for our school rather than just a logo on shirt", says Sven Gilkey, a junior in Political Science.

The mascot program is the brainchild of Freshman & Transfer Services Coordinator Tammy Tragis-McCook and supported by the UAF Office of Advancement & Community Engagement.

For more information or to request a UAF bear appearance, contact Tammy Tragis-McCook, UAF Enrollment Management, at (907) 474-1103.