Officially, Cornell does not have a mascot. However, generations of Cornellians have come to know and love the Big Red Bear as Cornell’s unofficial mascot. Early in the school’s athletic history a bear took over as its most recognizable symbol. Named “Touchdown,” the first live Cornell bear appeared in 1915 during Cornell's undefeated and national championship football season. Enthusiastic Big Red Bear-loving undergraduates don the fuzzy uniform and perform at various official Cornell celebrations and varsity athletic events, including at all football games. Visit the Life at Cornell and Recreation & Sports pages to learn more.