Alvernia unveils mascot name

Named in honor of the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters, Bernie takes center stage at Alvernia

Alvernia 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 Alvernia University 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."

Alvernia 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 Alvernia'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 Alvernia'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 Alvernia," 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, Alvernia 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 Alvernia'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 Golden Wolves athletics teams and serve as a symbol of kindness and service.