Community College changes mascot from "Indians" to "Red Hawk" (2012 action)

posted on Tuesday April 24, 2012 at school main web page (http://www.lakemichigancollege.edu/news )

On Tuesday during the April Board of Trustees meeting, Lake Michigan College officials unveiled a new official mascot for the College’s athletic program. The Red Hawk replaces Indians, which according to College archives, had been the mascot since the College’s inception in 1946.
The change comes as LMC student leaders were interested in building school spirit through more active use of the College’s Indian mascot. Before moving forward, the students and College administration felt it was important to discuss the plan of increased mascot visibility with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, given that the last time the College and Pokagon Band reviewed the topic was 1989.
In October, student representatives, College administrators, and the Pokagon Tribal Council met. Students expressed their wishes while asking for input from the Council members. The Council members offered their opinions on how various Native American mascots affected them personally throughout the years. In the end, the Council stated that any decision about the use of the mascot was entirely up to the College and the students.
According to Jason Wesaw, government manager of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, the Council members were impressed with the way the students approached the issue.
Following the meeting with the Pokagon Tribal Council, College officials and students discussed the various options, and came to the conclusion that the most appropriate course of action was to change the mascot.
A mascot selection committee of students, faculty, and staff was appointed to review alternatives. Among the early suggestions was the red-tail hawk, which is depicted on the flag that represents the Pokagon nation. Out of that, the Red Hawk emerged. The Red Hawk continues the College’s connection with the Pokagon Band, and is a symbol connected to nature, as is the College’s name. It also represents intelligence, strength, and speed, all of which are important in the success of student athletes.
“We are proud to make this change. With the new mascot, the College maintains its historic connection with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, while presenting a new symbol of excellence in athletics,” stated Lake Michigan College President Dr. Robert Harrison. “We thank the Tribal Council for their openness in the process.”
Harrison went on to add that the process was more than about selecting a new symbol to represent the College’s athletic program. It was a learning experience for students.
“They discovered the value of seeking other opinions and taking that input into consideration when making decisions,” stated Harrison. “I hope it’s an experience that will stay with them throughout their lives.”
The Red Hawk will go into use at the conclusion of 2012 softball and baseball seasons. It will be used to represent the athletics teams, in campus student life events, and on College apparel. The current wave icon coupled with the Lake Michigan College name will continue to be used as the primary logo of the College.