University of San Francisco to replace mascot after 90 years

The University of San Francisco announced on Friday that it will retire its costumed mascot at the start of the spring 2027 semester, the New York Post reported. The character, known as The Don, has appeared on sidelines since 1932. The university will introduce a wolf mascot to replace the character, but the athletic teams will keep the Dons name. [1]

The decision follows student backlash regarding colonial history, according to the New York Post. The mascot originally honored Don Francisco de Haro, who was the first mayor of Yerba Buena before the settlement became San Francisco. [1]

California became the 31st state of the United States on September 9, 1850. The transition occurred shortly after the 1848 discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill brought a large influx of settlers to the former Mexican territory. [3]

The University of San Francisco administration plans to consult with students and staff on the design of the new wolf costume in the coming months, the New York Post reported. [1]