Macalester College’s new mascot — the Highland Cow — was unveiled during the college’s commencement on Saturday, school officials said.

The cow, also known as Heiland Coo, was selected based on input from thousands of college alumni, students, faculty and staff. Early in the college’s history, a cow was brought to the third floor of Old Main as a prank by students. In addition, one suggestion for the new mascot pointed out that the first herd book for Highland cattle was created in 1885, the same year as the college’s first graduating class.

“I’m excited that our community has helped us to choose the Highland Cow. Like this iconic breed, we stand tall, resilient, and proud,” said Donnie Brooks, Macalester’s director of athletics and associate vice president for student affairs.

The Highland Cow will make its debut this fall, and a complete rebranding for athletics will be rolled out on uniforms and in other variations over time. Macalester’s athletic teams will still be called the Scots.

The Highland Cow replaces Mac the Scot, the college’s mascot since 2005.

“Mac the Scot, our current mascot, will retire to Scotland where, in his final charge, he will watch Macalester’s pipe band perform in the world championships in Glasgow on August 16 and 17,” college officials said in a press release.

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