ITHACA, N.Y. – Ithaca College has begun a search for an official college mascot. The search, which is expected to culminate in the announcement of a college mascot during next year's Fall Splash Weekend (Oct. 15, 2011), has begun with the launch of http://www.ithaca.edu/mascot . The new mascot will be named Bomber, after the college's longstanding nickname.

“As we hear Ithaca College constituents make suggestions to strengthen connections with the college, many members of our campus community have voiced their desire to create an official mascot to fuel fresh school pride amongst our students, faculty, staff and alumni,” said Rachel Reuben, associate vice president of marketing communications.

A task force, which will include representatives from the college's alumni, varsity teams, athletic department and other faculty and staff, will oversee the details of the selection process. The search process will include several phases in which the campus community will be asked to provide suggestions and feedback.

“At this point, we don't know what shape our mascot will take,” said Mike Lindberg, associate director of intercollegiate athletics. “But no matter what it is, Bomber will embody the energy, spirit and history that Ithaca College represents.”