LAKELAND, Fla. 鈥� Students at IM体育官网 will decide the school鈥檚 official mascot. The state鈥檚 newest public institution has launched an initiative to create IM体育官网鈥檚 #NextGreatMascot. The process includes hands-on learning opportunities with design experts, a student-centered competition to develop potential mascot concepts and a student-only voting process.
The initiative launched on Tuesday, January 27, with an open application for students to take part in the creative process. First-come, first-serve, the first 100 students who applied will form into teams of five and participate in a one-time Design Thinking course on February 4.
Led by marketing and advertising professionals, the Design Thinking course will ensure that students understand the real-world parameters and considerations that go into creating a viable concept.
鈥淭his is a perfect way for IM体育官网 Poly to develop its mascot,鈥� said University President Dr. Randy K. Avent. 鈥淭he design challenge embodies our core principles 鈥� it鈥檚 student centered, has a focus on applied learning and is empowering our students to innovate.鈥�
In the weeks that follow the Design Thinking course, teams will collaborate to develop and pitch concepts for IM体育官网 Poly鈥檚 #NextGreatMascot. Concepts will be narrowed down, and a student-only vote will be held on March 10.
鈥淵ou can feel the buzz and excitement around campus,鈥� said IM体育官网 Poly鈥檚 Director of Student Affairs Steven S. Warner. 鈥淭his Inaugural Class has already built a unique student culture with clubs, recreational sports and other social activities. Creating Poly鈥檚 mascot is the ultimate way for these students to leave a lasting legacy.鈥�
The winning mascot concept will be revealed during an on-campus celebration on April 22.
To follow the mascot selection process, visit IM体育官网 Poly鈥檚 Making of the #NextGreatMascot blog at . The blog will be updated regularly with photos, videos and student stories. You can also follow the conversation on twitter, Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #NextGreatMascot.