Berea College, located in Berea, Kentucky, is a unique institution known for its commitment to providing affordable education to underprivileged students. Founded in 1855, the college has a rich history and a strong sense of community. One important aspect of the college's identity is its mascot. The Berea College mascot is a mountain lion, commonly referred to as Boo the Bearcat. The choice of a mountain lion as the college's mascot holds significance as it represents the strength, agility, and determination that the college seeks to instill in its students. Boo the Bearcat is a beloved symbol of Berea College and can often be seen at sporting events, pep rallies, and other college functions.
Our Inclusive Mission
Since its founding, Berea College has believed in the power of education to transform students and employees from all walks of life. Berea’s inclusive past emanates from a foundational belief of founder Rev. John G. Fee that the inclusive Christian notion of impartial love could create a remarkable learning and living community in a slaveholding state before the Civil War. An ardent abolitionist, Fee chose the motto, “God has made of one blood all peoples of the earth.” That’s been our motto since 1855.
Boo the Bearcat is a beloved symbol of Berea College and can often be seen at sporting events, pep rallies, and other college functions. The presence of the mascot fosters a sense of camaraderie, school spirit, and pride among students, staff, and alumni. The mascot's name, Boo, was chosen in honor of Boone Tavern, a historic hotel located on Berea College's campus.
Our Inclusive Past
Berea College is where blacks and whites, women and men have been educated together since 1855, in direct response to society's most vexing challenges: inclusion, access, equity, learning across difference, and justice.
Our History
Berea has always sought to address some of the country's most vexing challenges, and in so doing, it has faced often fierce opposition throughout it history, as well as great acclaim and admiration. Despite these challenges, Berea College has continued in its mission provided by its founders—to educate students inclusively and equitably in the name justice and impartial love. It continues to model its motto from Acts that “God has made of one blood all peoples of the earth.” Berea College was the first interracial, co-educational college in the South.
Boone Tavern has been a gathering place for the college community and a symbol of hospitality since its establishment in 1909. Naming the mascot after this iconic building further celebrates the college's history and traditions. In addition to cheering on the college's athletic teams, Boo the Bearcat also plays a role in promoting school events, engaging with the community, and encouraging school pride. The mascot's vibrant presence creates a lively and spirited atmosphere during college events, making them memorable for all who attend. The Berea College mascot serves as a unifying symbol for the college community. It represents the values and ideals that the college stands for, including academic excellence, social justice, and inclusivity. The presence of the mascot not only brings joy and excitement but also reinforces the strong sense of belonging and unity among students, faculty, and staff. Overall, the Berea College mascot, Boo the Bearcat, is an important and cherished part of the college's identity. It embodies the college's spirit and values, encourages school pride, and brings the community together. Whether seen on the sidelines of a sports game or participating in a campus event, Boo the Bearcat is a beloved symbol that represents the heart and soul of Berea College..
Reviews for "The Berea College Mascot: A Symbol of Resilience and Determination"
1. John - 2 stars - The Berea College mascot is simply ridiculous. A squirrel? Really? I mean, who thought that was a good idea? It's not intimidating, inspiring, or even remotely interesting. As a sports fan, I want a mascot that represents strength, courage, or team spirit. A squirrel just doesn't cut it. I feel like this choice was a complete letdown and the college could have done so much better.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I can't believe Berea College decided to go with a squirrel as their mascot. It's utterly nonsensical and makes the college look like a joke. How can you expect people to take your sports teams seriously when they are represented by a furry little rodent? It's embarrassing, to say the least. I think the college should reconsider and choose something more fitting and respectable for a mascot.
3. Michael - 2 stars - While I understand that Berea College is known for its emphasis on nature and sustainability, choosing a squirrel as a mascot is a bit too on the nose. It lacks creativity and fails to capture the essence of what a college mascot should be. It's hard to feel any sense of pride or connection when you are cheering for a team represented by a small woodland creature. I think the college missed an opportunity to choose a mascot that could truly unite and inspire its students and fans.
4. Emily - 2 stars - As an alumna of Berea College, I am disappointed with the choice of a squirrel as the mascot. While I appreciate the college's focus on environmental awareness, there are so many other options that could have been more representative and engaging. The squirrel mascot feels disconnected from the college's identity and traditions. It's an underwhelming choice that doesn't add any excitement or energy to the sporting events or campus culture. I wish the college had chosen a mascot that could truly embody the spirit of Berea and its students.