Hofstra University

Kate & Willie Unveil Bold New Look for a New Era of Hofstra Pride with Mascot Branding Design from Phoenix!

Hempstead, NY - Hofstra University’s beloved mascots, Kate and Willie, are kicking off the academic year with a striking new look. The iconic lions, symbols of Hofstra’s enduring spirit since their introduction in 2001, are now stronger, sleeker, and more vibrant than ever – ready to energize the Pride community as they lead the charge into a fresh new era of school spirit and athletic excitement. Kate and Willie – named after Hofstra’s founders, Kate and William Hofstra – have long been symbols of the University’s strength, unity, and dedication. In 2004, the University embraced “the Pride” as its official nickname, a fitting tribute to the powerful presence of its mascots.

The new costumes were coordinated by the Hofstra marketing and communications division, led by Vice President Terry Coniglio. “It was a multistage process,” Coniglio said. “We provided Phoenix Design Works general guidelines for a more athletic-looking lions. From there, we went through several rounds of sketches, renderings, and fabric swatches for the fur and manes before Olympus Mascots brought the design to life. I am thrilled with the result and I hope the Hofstra community loves them.” In addition to refreshed physiques, Kate and Willie are sporting new Hofstra uniforms matching those of Hofstra’s teams, and even have different footwear for different occasions.

“It was exciting to see the Hofstra community’s positive response to the launch campaign, and we are delighted with Kate and Willie’s new look,” said President Susan Poser. Kate and Willie are managed by the Campus Recreation Spirit Support team. The mascots regularly attend Hofstra home athletic matches and major University events.

“It has been an absolute joy to work with Terry and everyone at Hofstra," said Amy Skiles, Phoenix Design Works SVP Business Development, Client Service. “It’s an honor to have worked with Hofstra to create the new look of Kate and Willie, and we feel so fortunate to have worked on such an important part of the Hofstra story!”

”Terry has been such a great team leader, and everyone at Hofstra has been wonderful to work with,” said Jamie Skiles, Phoenix Design Works President & Creative Director. “Terry and her group are a very smart and innovative team, it’s been a pleasure to work together to create a little history for the Hofstra brand. We are so happy to see Kate and Willie receive such an enthusiastic reception from all of Hofstra’s diverse constituents, and we hope the new Kate and Willie will serve the university for many years to come - Many thanks to all our friends at Hofstra!”

Phoenix Design Works creates branding & identity programs, advertising & promotion campaigns, Mascot Branding Programs and new product development. Phoenix has created comprehensive brand & logo identity programs for hundreds of America’s best known sports & entertainment properties including The CAA Conference, The College of Charleston, Hampton University, Hofstra University, NC A&T, and The College of William & Mary, as well as Adelphi University, NYIT, SUNY Old Westbury, and LIU Post.