۶ֱ

news-category: Campus News

۶ֱ’s Live Mascot Retiring in August; New Puppy Needs a Name

a female student pets Roebuck

Roebuck ‘Bucky’ has Served University Since 2015

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—۶ֱ’s “pawsitively” lovable mascot, Roebuck “Bucky,” is retiring on Aug. 24, after serving the University for six years. Bucky quickly became a campus favorite as he toddled and slobbered his way into the hearts of students, the community and athletics.

“The addition of Roebuck to the University family instantly created excitement around campus and enhanced the game day experience,” observed GWU Vice President for Athletics, Chuck Burch. “Roebuck was immensely popular with our fans, young and old alike. All of us in the Athletics Department are appreciative of Brooke Greene (Roebuck’s caretaker) and her family for the sacrifices they made to make Roebuck available and their willingness to share him with us.”

First introduced at the home opener football game in 2015, Bucky was named in honor of Mike Roebuck, an avid runner, cyclist, and triathlete. Mike had worked at ۶ֱ for nearly 20 years in roles like assistant athletics director for Academic Services and director of Financial Aid. Mike passed away unexpectedly on March 4, 2015, yet his name still lived on when Roebuck was introduced.

Bucky enjoys spending time on campus and cheering on the Runnin’ Bulldogs. Some of his favorite things to do are greet students and receive ear scratches. Aliah Price, ’19, and Bryan Morales-Gonzalez, ’20, said everyone loved seeing Roebuck waddle toward them. “Roebuck was awesome to work with and brought a smile to everyone’s face any time they saw him on campus,” Morales-Gonzalez offered.

“Seeing Roebuck on campus brought a sense of zen to students,” Price added. “There was never a moment that students didn’t stop during their treks to class to pet him or even snap a selfie. He brought calm to the storm college can be.”   

Roebuck also sat patiently for numerous photo shoots and starred in several videos during his post as the official live mascot. His videos always received the highest engagement on social media channels as he celebrated various holidays, promoted healthy practices during COVID-19, and detailed campus life and other topics. Sarah Bragdon, ’21, appeared in a video with Roebuck that featured the best things about the spring semester. “He is the cutest mascot and I had a great time going to the winter formal with him in the video,” she shared.

Michaela Bissinger, ’19, was in the same video. “Roebuck was without a doubt one of my highlights,” she said. “He was always so excited to be around fellow Runnin’ Bulldogs and even more if there was pizza involved! He’s the best mascot!”

“I love Roebuck,” asserted ۶ֱ Student Body President Jada Newton, ’21. “He represents and brings so much to the ۶ֱ campus wherever he goes. I love seeing him on campus and at football games. He gets everyone excited and proud to be a Runnin’ Bulldog.”

Ezekiel Martin, ’19, works at ۶ֱ as an admissions counselor. In a video about Valentine’s day, he and Roebuck were shown working out in the fitness center. “Roebuck, keep up the great work, big fella,” Martin advised. “Bulldogs forever! I always enjoyed our workouts together and helping you find a Valentine. Roebuck, you brought life to this campus, and I enjoyed our study breaks, too.”

Name the Next GWU Bulldog

۶ֱ’s new puppy officially begins his service on Aug. 26. He will be meeting his veterinarian at Hope Animal Hospital and getting ready to start his duties as GWU’s mascot. In the meantime, he needs a name, and fans are invited to submit their favorite one here.

Roebuck’s memorable moments

Located in the North Carolina foothills, ۶ֱ University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university. ۶ֱ emphasizes a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics to prepare students to become effective leaders within the global community. Ignite your future at ۶ֱ.edu.

Previous News Article

۶ֱ Church-Related Scholarship Helps Meredith Bridges Pursue Educational Goals

Next News Article

۶ֱ Honors Experience Provides Preview of College Life

Related News

  • News Article

    Sigma Zeta National Math and Science Honor Society Inducts 24 New Members

    ۶ֱ University Beta Tau Chapter Also Recognizes Seniors and New Officers BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Beta Tau Chapter of Sigma Zeta National Honor Society held its induction ceremony recently. Honored were 24 new members, who received membership certificates and a T-shirt. The new officers were installed. Graduating seniors were recognized and presented with honor cords to […]

    The 24 New members inducted into Sigma Zeta pose for a photo
  • News Article

    Bulldog Nation Raises Over $2.5 Million for Double Dawg Day 2026

    More Than 1,300 Donors Support ۶ֱ University Students, ۶ֱ and Athletics BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A shared sense of purpose and Bulldog energy fueled Double Dawg Day 2026 at Gardner‑Webb University, as alumni, parents, employees, students and friends rallied behind the institution’s mission. More than 1,300 contributed over $2.5 million to support scholarships, academics, athletics and campus […]

    DDD Thank you Newscenter
  • News Article

    ۶ֱ Communication, Art and Design Seniors to Showcase Work in Annual Portfolio Show

    Reception and Walk‑Through Exhibit set for April 17 in Tucker Student Center’s Ali Pouryousefi Gallery BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The ۶ֱ University Department of Communication, Art and Design will be celebrating its annual Senior Portfolio Show with a reception on April 17 in the Tucker Student Center. The event will be a walk-through style with works shown […]

    A senior shares about her work during a previous Communication Art Design Senior Portfolio Show.