University Canada West debuted its new mascot during Fall 2024 Convocation.

Stanley the Otter made quite the splash after his much-anticipated reveal. Leading up to the first day of convocation, Stanley teased his grand appearance with a number of social media posts.

Grads and their families were excited to get the chance to meet Stanley for the first time in person adding to the excitement of convocation, while current students will get to interact with Stanley at future events and happenings around campus.

The creation of University Canada West’s mascot was a collaborative and inclusive effort, reflecting our institution’s vibrant and diverse community.

The journey began by reaching out to the UCW Community and inviting students, faculty and staff to join a dedicated committee. With broad representation, this committee ensured that various perspectives were considered throughout the process.

We then engaged the entire UCW Community, asking for ideas and inspiration for the mascot. The enthusiastic response provided a wealth of creative suggestions. The committee carefully short-listed these ideas, selecting those that best embodied the spirit and values of UCW.

We consulted with UCW’s Indigenous Advisory Council to ensure the mascot resonated with all stakeholders. Their insights and guidance were invaluable, ensuring the mascot reflected both our institutional identity and respect for Indigenous culture.

This collaborative process resulted in a mascot that represents UCW’s dynamic community and honours our university’s rich cultural heritage and inclusive ethos.

Get to know Stanley Q&A

How can students get involved with you and your activities?

Getting involved with me is easy and fun! Students can volunteer at events or even help plan some of the activities I attend. Keep an eye on the UCW events calendar and follow our social media for opportunities to join in. And don’t be shy—if you see me around campus, come say hi, take a selfie and share it using #StanleyTheMascot!

What makes our school spirit unique?

Our school spirit at UCW is truly special because it’s built on inclusivity and community. We celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our students, faculty and staff, and this diversity enriches our events and traditions. Whether we’re cheering on a sports team or participating in cultural celebrations, the energy and enthusiasm are unmatched!

Do you have any secret talents that we don’t know about?

Well, I do have a few tricks up my furry sleeve! Besides being an excellent swimmer, I’m pretty good at balancing things on my head—books, snacks, you name it! I also have a knack for finding the best study spots around campus. Maybe I’ll show you one day!

What advice do you have for incoming students to maximize their school spirit?

My advice for incoming students is to dive right in! Get involved in clubs, attend events and don’t be afraid to show your UCW pride. Wearing our school colours and participating in activities is a great way to meet new friends and create unforgettable memories. Remember, the more you put into your experience, the more you’ll get out of it!

How will you handle being a celebrity on campus?

Being a celebrity on campus is otter-ly amazing! I handle it by staying friendly, approachable and always ready to spread positivity. It’s all about making sure everyone feels included and excited to be part of the UCW Community. Plus, meeting so many wonderful people every day is a lot of fun!

What is your favourite part about living in Vancouver?

My favourite part about living in Vancouver is definitely being close to the water. As an otter, I love exploring the beautiful beaches and parks. The city’s vibrant culture and stunning nature provide endless adventures, and I enjoy every moment of it. Plus, the community here is so welcoming and diverse—it feels like home!

For more on UCW Fall 2024 Convocation, read the stories below: