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Story of the PC Bear — Bumstead
Througout the history of Phoenix College, students, employees and alumni alike have maintained a close connection to its beloved mascot, the PC Bear (also known as "Bumstead the Bear"). The PC Bear has been the subject of many essays over the years, including one by the late Dr. Robert J. Hannelly, former dean and president of the college (1947-1965).
The PC Bear reached national noteriety in 1982 when a short history on it was added to a national publication called "What's in a Nickname?", a collection of the oldest and most colorful college animal mascots in the United States.
In 1999, the PCAA rekindled the college's ties to the Bear by celebrating him at their 10th anniversay event, "Back to the Future: Bumstead's Return." In the years that have since followed, alumni has led an ongoing campaign called the "Bear Spirit Campaign," aimed at reinfusing the history and significance of the mascot to present and future generations of students, employees and alumni.
Alumni Historian June Fike '78 has studied the symbolism and mythology of the PC Bear for many years and has played an instrumental role in the Bear Spirit Campaign. The following articles about the mascot were compiled by June and we are pleased to offer them here for your enjoyment:
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