Students Propose Ideas for a New University Mascot

Students gathered at the IKBFU Student House to design the university's future mascot — brainstorming visuals and crafting a motto.  

A mascot is a symbolic representation of an organisation, conveying its core values and identity. It is used in communications to increase brand awareness and create a more relatable image.

Maxim Demin, IKBFU Rector:

We don't want students to just observe university life. We want them to be part of it, to shape it. That's why we're inviting them to work on our visual identity and come up with slogans that truly reflect our community. This is especially important now, with the new Kantiana campus on the horizon — a space for creativity and growth. We need to listen to our students, understand what they care about, and involve them in the process. Because at the end of the day, it's the students who will shape the university of the future.

Yulia Shkurkina, Director of the Strategic Communications Department, spoke about the power of a mascot in creating a strong brand identity. She shared inspiring examples from Russian and international universities — mascots that unite students, support initiatives, and create lasting emotional connections.

The students divided into groups, working with moderators to find images that would capture the university's essence. The ideas were wonderfully varied — an otter, a black stork, a blue fox, a wild boar, the wind, a wagtail, and a stork. Each team presented their vision, explaining the symbolism behind their choice and its connection to the university.

Arsen Kaygermazov, Deputy Vice‑Chancellor for Youth Policy and Educational Activities:
We believe in student involvement — not just waiting for ready‑made solutions, but actively shaping the environment they live and learn in. This project is a great example of student self‑governance and teamwork. Together, we're building a space of opportunity at Kantiana. We hope the whole community will take part in choosing the mascot — because it should feel like it belongs to everyone.

Vote for your favourite mascot idea now. The winning design will be developed further.