91 unveils mascot name
Named in honor of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, Bernie takes center stage at 91
91 unveiled the name of its mascot, Bernie, during Maroon and Gold Night, celebrating the mascot’s 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 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 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 a connection to the past and the university’s forward-looking vision. The naming contest is just one part of 91’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's Homecoming and Family Weekend. 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,” 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 mascot’s name, 91 revealed a unique backstory for Bernie, connecting the mascot to the legendary Wolf of Gubbio.
Bernie will be a prominent figure at upcoming university events, always ready to lend a paw in support of the Golden Wolves athletics teams and serve as a symbol of kindness and service.