Embodying Smith Spirit: Rethinking Our Mascot

Throughout its history, Smith College has had a variety of monikers and mascots—even the Unicorns! The current Pioneer name, in place for the past 40 years, is intended to speak to the pioneering spirit of women breaking through barriers and reforming the status quo. While there are many lasting positive connotations associated with the term, it also has negative associations for some. 

Today, Smith students have reignited the drive for selecting a new moniker and mascot—a process begun several years ago but never completed. The goal is to create a symbol that better reflects the college’s values and fierce competitive spirit, uniting the Smith community and inspiring pride at athletic events and beyond. 

On February 24, the college officially reconvened the Moniker Committee, chaired by Athletics Director Kristin Hughes, Associate Vice President for Alumnae Relations Amanda Rivera López, Vice President for Campus Life and Dean of the College Alex Keller, and Interim Vice President for College Relations Debra Townsend.

Other committee members include student-athletes and key contributors to the revived process; Sofia Trotta ’23, S.M. ’25, and Piper Corey ’25, who represents the Student Government Association; house presidents; and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Trotta and Corey are among the many students who have worked over the years to identify an exciting new moniker, and are joined by Sports Information Director Ciara Lawrence, Head Basketball Coach Lynn Hersey, Head Rowing Coach Clare Doyle, Professor of Chemistry Kate Queeney, Alumnae Association President and Smith Trustee Peggie Ward Koon ’74, Elizabeth Tyminski ’86, Director of Digital Strategy & Creative Services Amy McDonald, and Assistant Director of Digital Strategy & Creative Services Megan Young ’07.

From March 12 to April 11, the entire campus community will have the opportunity to submit moniker suggestions. Alums can submit suggestions via our Google form. Students, staff, and faculty can log in to submit ideas. Be a part of this exciting moment in Smith’s history. 

On April 14, the committee chairs will review all submissions and select three finalists, which will then be evaluated by the full Moniker Committee. During the week of April 18, committee members will gather stakeholder input, assess the final contenders, and initiate the final selection process. Designs and a logo for the new mascot will be developed in late spring and summer, and the new name will be in place for athletic, alum, and campus events in the fall. 

As Smith College looks toward its next 150 years, this new moniker represents a meaningful step in modernizing the college’s identity. It will acknowledge the college’s rich history while better reflecting the values, strengths, and aspirations of the Smith community today. This change is about aligning the college’s legacy with its future, strengthening the connection among students, alums, and the broader Smith community. It will be exciting to hear the new name shouted with pride in the many unforgettable moments that lie ahead!