Mascot Eligibility and Responsibilities

  • The Mascot uniform may only be worn by a paid Penn State employee or student. Unpaid volunteers are not permitted to wear the Mascot uniform. Employees (including student-employees) must be paid an hourly wage (to be determined by each campus) when wearing the Nittany Lion uniform. Students may also be engaged to wear the Mascot uniform if granted a scholarship. If applicable, the scholarship awarded to a student will be determined by each campus.
  • Due to the Nittany Lion's routine interaction with children that is integral to its role, all employees or student-employees wearing the mascot uniform are required to obtain the following clearances (renewed every five years):
    • Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check (SP-164)
    • Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Form (CY-113)
    • Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check (Criminal History Report)
  • Employees wearing the Mascot uniform at approved appearances are covered by applicable University insurance, including workers’ compensation, general liability, automobile liability, and property insurance. Student scholarship recipients are covered by athletic injury and general liability insurance.
  • A student Mascot may not attend an appearance that conflicts with class or other academic obligations.
  • The Mascot must always be accompanied by a University employee serving as the mascot guide.
  • The Mascot is responsible for caring for the uniform and ensuring it remains clean and undamaged (for example, carrying the tail to prevent it from dragging).
  • The Mascot must behave respectfully and professionally at all times.

The Mascot MAY:

  • Be photographed with fans, provided no alcoholic beverages or tobacco products appear in the photo.
  • Hug or shake hands with fans (hands must remain visible during hugs).
  • Dance and interact with fans in a positive and appropriate manner.

The Mascot MAY NOT:

  • Speak, sing, or make verbal noises.
  • Pick up or hold children or infants.
  • Approach individuals who appear frightened or uncomfortable.
  • Engage in violent, inappropriate, or offensive behavior.
  • Consume alcohol or use tobacco products before or during an appearance.
  • Participate in photos that depict inappropriate gestures or behavior.
  • Use the uniform for personal purposes.

Mascot Guide (“Lion Handler”) Responsibilities

  • Serve as the Mascot’s eyes and ears at all times.
  • Be clearly identified to the Mascot before each event.
  • Monitor weather conditions, temperature extremes, and other potential hazards.
  • Address safety concerns, including traffic, crowd behavior, and obstacles.
  • Ensure compliance with all Mascot appearance guidelines.

Guidelines for Mascot Appearances

  • All appearances must support the University’s mission and values.
  • The Mascot and guide may not accept gifts, promotions, or special items unless those items are available to all event participants. See University Policy AD86 for guidance on gifts and entertainment.

At each event, the following must be provided:

  • Parking close to the event location.
  • A private space for dressing and rest.
  • A ten–fifteen minute break per hour.
  • A secure location for personal belongings.
  • Access to drinking water at all times.
  • Clear communication regarding the end time of the appearance.

The Mascot costume can become extremely hot. Extended use may pose health risks. The mascot guide must monitor for signs of heat-related illness and may end an appearance if conditions are unsafe.

The Mascot and guide reserve the right to leave any appearance if they feel unsafe.