University unveils new athletic logo

From the tall Everglades grass emerged a dark, furious hunter, and he's wearing blue and gold. The Florida International University Golden Panther got a makeover, and the result is a meaner, leaner predator ready for a fight.

FIU students love it.

"We felt that the University's maturing athletic program -- especially now that football is coming on line -- deserves a more intimidating mascot," said Rick Mello, FIU athletic director. "It's a modern look that will stand the test of time."

The FIU athletics logo was redesigned this summer by ZD Studios in Madison, Wisconsin, at a cost of approximately $16,000. The company has been involved in several mascot redesigns including the Green Bay, Lambeau Field project.

FIU administrators believe that the new logo will be fully phased into the University by summer of 2002, prior to the first football game on Aug. 31, 2002.

"The new logo is a much more true-to-life representation of the Golden Panther," said Terry Witherell, director of Advertising and Brand Management. "Overall, the new look speaks to the maturity and level of sophistication FIU has achieved."

For more information on the logo or to obtain the new artwork, call 305-348-6999 or visit the FIU web site for downloadable images at www.fiu.edu/id/mascot-download.