In our fourth installment of our Mascot Mania series, we’re delving into the history of the Washington State Cougars. We all know Butch, but how did he come to be?

The WSU mascot Butch T. Cougar made a special appearance at the CMA Awards Wednesday night, joining country music singer Brad Paisley and a slew of other college mascots on stage.

Donated by alumnus Gary Schneidmiller, the statue is a tribute to WSU’s live cougar mascot tradition, which has spanned over five decades. It’s named after former WSU quarterback Herbert ...

Butch, WSU’s cougar mascot, welcomes Fall 2024 students on 1st day of classes at Tri-Cities campus Richland.

The post also received support and condolences from WSU mascot, Butch T. Cougar, University of Washington's Harry the Husky, and the WSU cheer team and alumni page.

I know what you’re thinking: You can’t leave, Butch. You’ve been the WSU mascot for more than a century! The sixth – and final – living Butch the mascot is pictured in 1978.

(Photo: Geoff Walker) WALKER'S PATH TO become Butch differs from the process WSU currently uses to select its mascot. Currently, the Cougars rotate four Butch’s between sporting and community ...

WSU’s mascot, Butch, waves a flag Monday as students enter campus for their first day at the Tri-Cities campus.

Washington State University Vancouver will host a Holiday Cheer and Gift Gear event from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Hilton Vancouver Washington, 301 W. Sixth St.

Chancellor for Washington State University’s Everett campus Paul Pitre speaks at a celebration for the new cougar statue on Friday, Aug. 23, 2024 in Everett, Washington.