Coran Sigman, live mascot handler for the University of Indianapolis, holds the leashes for Grady II, left, and Grady, during an event introducting Grady II on Thursday at the university.
Provided photo
The University of Indianapolis welcomed a new face, and wagging tail, to campus Thursday when officials unveiled the newest chapter in their beloved live mascot program.
Crimson Greyson Veritas II, or Grady II for short, was introduced to the campus community in the Schwitzer Student Center, walking alongside handler Coran Sigman. The original Grady the Greyhound looked on proudly.
Grady II is a 2-year-old former racer who was adopted from a racetrack in Australia. Grady and Grady II will jointly share mascot duties throughout the remainder of the academic year, serving as campus ambassadors until Grady officially retires or “graduates” with the Class of 2026 in May, according to a news release.
“I am thrilled that the legacy of the live mascot program is writing a new chapter with Grady II,” said Sigman, UIndy’s live mascot handler, who provides a home to both greyhounds. “More than merely a mascot, Grady and Grady II truly serve as ambassadors who have the power to cheer up students who are homesick or struggling, often with something as simple as a hug or a picture.”
Like Grady II, Grady the Greyhound is also an adopted racer. Adopted from a racetrack in Florida, Grady brought back the live mascot tradition to the University of Indianapolis for the first time in nearly 40 years when he was introduced on Nov. 20, 2019. When he graduates in May, he will be more than nine years old.
“Few things bring smiles to our campus quite like Grady,” said UIndy President Tanuja Singh. “Traditions like the live mascot program strengthen the bonds that unite our students, faculty, staff and alumni, and serve as a visible reminder that being a Greyhound is about connection and belonging.”
To mark Grady II’s arrival, UIndy has launched a one-week crowdfunding campaign to support the live mascot program. The goal of $5,000 will help cover the cost of vet bills and care, as well as community appearances, which continue to be free. Donors can track progress and contribute online through Oct. 23 at the Grady Legacy Fund by going to givecampus.com/s/r1e2z7.
