A student-led committee has selected Beacon and Blaze as the new mascots for Valparaiso University, as announced on Monday, Aug. 15.

Beacon, a golden retriever, and Blaze, a chocolate lab, will perform at Valpo Athletics events, appear during the University’s Welcome Week events and have an active presence in the Valpo community. They will be in attendance for the football season opener on Saturday, Sept. 3 at 6 p.m. at Brown Field, and they will also be present at Popcorn Fest on Sept. 10.

The selection of dog mascots ties into the University’s history and tradition, honoring George Kumnick, the campus dog from 1937-1947. Beacon and Blaze are part of George’s family tree.

Students involved in the mascot committee brainstormed mascot ideas, provided valuable input, and ultimately decided on the mascots that will represent Valpo for years to come.

About Beacon

Full Name: Beacon

Breed: Golden Retriever

Height: 5’9-6 and 6-6’3

Color: Golden

Birthplace: Valparaiso, Indiana

Birth year: 2020         

Traits: Doesn’t bark unless prompted, licks faces, hyper, excited, friendly

Likes: Catching a ball, pets on the nose, running around campus

Dislikes: Squirrels, Indiana State University’s mascot Sycamore Sam

About Blaze

Full Name: Blaze

Breed: Chocolate Lab

Height: 5’9-6 and 6-6’3

Color: Chocolate

Birthplace: Valparaiso, Indiana

Birth year: 2020

Traits: Barks often, high energy, balanced, playful

Likes: Pets behind the ears, running around campus, nachos

Dislikes: Cats, the University of Northern Iowa’s mascots TC and TK Panther

Click here to visit The Victory Bell for more on Beacon and Blaze.