Nittany Lion Mascot Guidelines

The purpose of the Nittany Lion Mascot (“Mascot”) is to support, promote, and represent Penn State University by enhancing school spirit, pride, and excitement in all environments. These guidelines apply specifically to Penn State Greater Allegheny.

In accordance with University Policy AD07: Use of University Name, Trademarks, Symbols, Logos and/or Graphic Devices, the Nittany Lion is considered University Indicia and is a direct reflection of the University. Policy AD07 protects the University’s name and reputation by regulating the use of official marks and symbols.

Request the Nittany Lion from Strategic Communications

The Nittany Lion

The Mascot is property of the University and may only be used in connection with activities that meet University standards and support its mission.

At Penn State Greater Allegheny, the Office of Strategic Communications serves as the administrative unit responsible for oversight. A designated full-time employee (“Campus Lead”) provides oversight of the Mascot and uniform, ensures compliance with AD07 and these guidelines, and approves all appearances.

The Mascot uniform may only be worn by an affiliated Penn State faculty member, staff member, or student. The uniform may not be used for personal purposes.

Permissible Use of the Nittany Lion

The Mascot may appear only in an official University capacity at a University Event or an approved Non-University Event.

A University Event is any event sponsored by and under the direct control of the University. The Campus Lead will use Policy AD07 to evaluate and approve Non-University Event appearances. All appearances require Campus Lead approval.

Examples of University Events

  • Admissions open houses
  • Intercollegiate athletic events
  • Recruiting events
  • On-campus receptions
  • Development events
  • Student engagement events
  • THON
  • New Student Orientation
  • Community service events

Examples of Non-University Events

The Mascot may not attend personal events (such as weddings, retirement parties, or birthdays) or commercial events (such as store grand openings) unless contractually required through an executed sponsorship agreement and approved by the Office of Strategic Communications in accordance with Policy AD07.

The Mascot may not attend religious or political events.

Commonwealth Campus mascots may not appear at events at University Park without prior approval from Intercollegiate Athletics (Spirit Squad Head Coach: Curtis White, [email protected]).

A University employee must accompany the Mascot at all appearances. For University Events, the requesting department is responsible for providing a guide.

Delegated Authority for Approval

The Campus Lead approves all Mascot use and evaluates Non-University Event requests using Policy AD07. The Campus Lead must track all Non-University appearances and submit an annual report of Mascot activity (University and external use) to the Office of Strategic Communications. Reports are retained by the Office of Ethics and Compliance and the Campus Lead.

Appearance Fees

All fees must comply with University Policy FN27.

  • The campus may decide whether to charge a fee for University Events.
  • A fee must be charged for all Non-University Event appearances, whether held on or off campus.
  • Fees may not be established solely to generate discretionary departmental income.

To establish approved rates, campuses must submit the following to Cost Analysis:

  • Cost of the Mascot uniform (contact the Office of Strategic Communications for approved vendor information)
  • Cost of cleaning the uniform
  • Hourly compensation for the Mascot performer and required guide (or related scholarship funds, if applicable)
  • Per diem and mileage reimbursement costs (in accordance with University travel policy)
  • Any other anticipated expenses

The Campus Lead must submit an annual financial statement of revenue and expenses for the Mascot program to the Office of Strategic Communications and the Director of Finance.

Non-University Event Request Guidelines

  • Requests must be submitted at least one month in advance. Approval is not guaranteed.
  • Payment must be received prior to the event. Reimbursement for cancellations will be determined by the campus.
  • Photos and videos may not be used for commercial or promotional purposes without written approval from the Office of Strategic Communications.
  • Liability for Costume Damage: If damage occurs due to negligence or misconduct, the requesting organization is responsible for repair or replacement costs.