The mascot selection is driven by student nominations. Below you will see facts, the symbolism, and why students nominated each contender. The voting will be open from March 21- April 4. So vote for your favorite Reynolds Mascot and share the voting page with your friends. 

Facts

• Red Hawks or Red-tailed Hawks are native to North America
• They are extremely adaptable to most environments
• When you hear an eagle or hawk in a movie you are most likely hearing a Red-tailed Hawk since their voice is so iconic.

Symbolism

Intelligence, independence, adaptability, messages, clairvoyance, and spiritual awareness, and considered a good omen.

What Students Said

• [Hawks] are tough-looking birds that represent the determination of students and staff at Reynolds. They are commonly known and seen in Virginia.
• Can soar to their highest potential, very respectable
• Because we [Reynolds] soar to become successful

Facts

• The Red Wolf is native to the southeastern United States and is a social animal that builds close-knit communities or packs. 
• Wolves change landscapes: When wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone, they balanced the elk population—allowing large trees to return, stabilizing riverbanks, so other animals like beavers, eagles, foxes, and badgers could thrive. 

Symbolism

Loyalty, family and friendship, teamwork, protection, wildness, freedom, instincts, playfulness, and other noble traits.

What Students Said

• A wolf embodies the strength we have when we all stand together. Wolves run in packs and look out for each other.
• Wolves are known for their pack structure as well as their intelligence and intuition. They look after each other and every wolf has a place in the pack, they all have an important role. Wolves respect themselves and each other while being fiercely loyal to the pack.
• Wolves have pride and strength they are resilient animals who are caring but strong.

Facts

• Ravens are considered the acrobats in the sky. They surf updrafts, fly upside down, and even turn somersaults just because they can.
• Ravens have a vast repertoire of 100 or more vocalizations. With their deep voice, ravens can mimic human speech and singing and can imitate other bird sounds.
• These clever and cunning birds often work as a pair to acquire food.

Symbolism

Wisdom, affection, healing powers, longevity, and fertility. Its presence indicates good fortune.

What Students Said

• Ravens are incredibly intelligent, inquisitive, good at problem-solving, and social birds which embody the experience students have at Reynolds.
• Ravens are intelligent and skilled at learning, which fits a college, and they can work alone or gather in groups, displaying the self-sufficiency and teamwork that are both important for college success.
• It features pleasant alliteration, an animal makes for a straightforward mascot costume, and a raven is a positive reflection of intelligent, clever, and adaptable college students.