Buzz, Cheer and Dance represent Defiance at Mascot Day

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Alongside a contingent of Defiance College cheer and dance team members, Buzz, the Defiance College mascot, represented DC at the Ohio Statehouse in late October. 

The Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio (AICUO) welcomed independent college mascots from around Ohio to the capital for Mascot Day. With the first Mascot Day taking place in 2013, the eventful day is designed to highlight the school spirit, pride, and diversity of the independent institutions around the state.

Aside from having the chance to engage with various other cheer programs from Ohio, the event allowed the Yellow Jackets to meet and network with various members of the Ohio government. Members of the DC program met with Randy Gardner, Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, as well as State Representative James Hoops.

"Mascot Day was a great experience for everyone," said Interim Head Coach Carol Botek. "We had the privilege to meet and talk with Randy Gardner, the Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education. Representative Jim Hoops, who represents our district, also stopped by and spent some time talking to our student-athletes."

The Yellow Jackets are eager to spend more time in the state capital in the coming months, says Botek. "We are looking forward to attending Independent College Day in the spring to spend more time with state legislators!" 

The AICUO represents the interests of its 51 member institutions to Ohio's lawmakers, regulators, and citizens. The association also seeks to strengthen student financial aid programs and bring about a greater understanding of the benefits and contributions of Ohio independent colleges and universities.