BLOOMINGTON – As Indiana University celebrates its best football season in history, a new movement is gaining momentum on campus – one that advocates for the return of the Bison as the university’s official mascot.
The Bison served as the Hoosiers’ mascot during the 1960s, and photos from the IU Archives showcase the costumed character during its heyday. Now, a fresh wave of support is rising to revive the beloved mascot, sparked in part by a recent poll conducted by the IU Student Government (IUSG). The results were clear: 72% of those polled were in favor of bringing the Bison back to represent the university.
IUSG has taken the movement a step further by drafting actual student legislation. This bill, which passed the student congress and was signed on Wednesday, signals growing institutional support. While the bill doesn’t officially reinstate the Bison just yet, it marks a significant step toward reintroducing the mascot to the IU community.
With the Hoosiers set to play the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at 8 p.m. Friday in the first round of the College Football Playoffs, the timing of the legislation only adds to the excitement surrounding IU athletics. The revival of the Bison mascot would be a unique way to celebrate the university’s historic season, bringing a bit of nostalgia and school pride back to the forefront.
While the Bison’s return isn’t official yet, the growing enthusiasm and student-led initiative could soon spark conversations at the highest levels of IU administration. For now, supporters are hopeful that the Bison will make its comeback as part of IU’s continued rise in the world of college sports.
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