What Is Sam Houston State University’S Mascot?

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a public research university in Huntsville, Texas, founded in 1879. It is the third-oldest public college or university in Texas and one of the first normal schools. In the late 1940s, SHSU President Dr. Harmon Lowman tried to change the mascot to the Raven to connect with Gen. Sam Houston. Sammy the Bearkat, the primary mascot character of SHSU, has announced his retirement after 60 years of faithful service.

The first incarnation of the costumed mascot debuted in December 1959 at sporting events and other university functions. The current reimaging was made in October 2021. The Bearkat Mascot is responsible for overseeing all Spirit Programs, including Orange Pride Dance Team, Co-Ed Cheer, All-Girl Cheer, and mascot Sammy the Bearkat.

Sammy the Bearkat’s original design had him sporting a papier-mâché head wearing a sailor’s hat. The new Sammy mascot, which calls back to a symbol of Sam Houston athletics that has been around since the 1950s, has been a popular attraction at many athletic events.

The Sam Houston State Bearkat athletics logos are trademarked and are the property of Sam Houston State Athletics. These marks are reserved for official use.