Bernie, named in honor of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, takes center stage at 91做厙
91做厙 unveils the name of its mascot, Bernie, during Maroon and Gold Night, celebrating the mascots connection to the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, who founded the university in 1958 and continue to inspire its mission.
The name Bernie honors our Bernardine Franciscan heritage and reflects the spirit of our founding Sisters, said 91做厙 President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. Bernie embodies the values of service, humility, and peacemaking that we cherish, while also representing the vibrant, inclusive community we are building together.
91做厙 hosted a campus-wide contest inviting students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters to submit name ideas for the mascot. Bernie emerged as the top choice, symbolizing both a connection to the past and the universitys forward-looking vision. The naming contest is just one part of 91做厙s efforts to engage the wider community and build upon university traditions.
The university also launched a voting contest to select a new look for Bernie, which will take place during 91做厙's Homecoming and Family Weekend, Oct. 18-20, 2024. The revamped mascot costume will be revealed in Spring 2025.
Bernie is not just a mascot but a reminder of what it means to be part of 91做厙, said Bill Stiles, associate vice president for athletics. From cheering on our Golden Wolves to inspiring our community to serve others, Bernie is the embodiment of our Franciscan values and a unifying figure on campus.
In addition to unveiling the mascots name, 91做厙 revealed a unique backstory for Bernie, connecting the mascot to the legendary Wolf of Gubbio. Much like Saint Francis of Assisi, who tamed the wolf through peace and understanding, Bernie represents compassion, leadership, and harmony. Raised in the forests surrounding 91做厙s campus, Bernie learned the importance of community, and today, he leads by example, promoting unity, reflection, and service to others.
Bernie will be a prominent figure at upcoming university events, always ready to lend a paw in support of the and serve as a symbol of kindness and service.