The Nittany Lion Mascot is an essential part of Penn State's tradition and pride, which originated in 1904 during a baseball game against Princeton. Upon hearing their rivals' mascot, Harrison D. Mason announced that the Nittany Lion was "the fiercest beast of them all." Not only did Penn State win the game that day, but an image was created that would become both a symbol and legacy at the University for years to follow.

The Nittany Lion appeals to all generations of Penn Staters, yet means something different to each one. There is nothing more magical than for a child to give the Nittany Lion a high-five or a hug. For the students, he is a beacon of tradition - a friendly reminder of the unconditional love that is seen here for their university. The Lion is a source of energy that will bring us back long after we graduate, and the source of the strength that we need now more than ever. To the alumni and staff of the university, the Lion is reinvigorating, recalling the halcyon days of youth, acting as a happy reminder that the Valley roars on.

Please click the links below to visit other sites about our Nittany Lion Mascot:

The Nittany Lion an illustrated tale