Celebrations to continue through the spring, Griff III to be revealed later this week
Drake University announced today that Griff II, the cherished English Bulldog who has served as the University’s official live mascot for the past six years, is retiring in May 2026 at the end of the current academic year. Drake has prepared a variety of celebrations to recognize Griff II’s tenure and his dedicated service before he settles into a well-deserved retirement full of snoozing, snacks, and snuggles.
“Griff II is an extraordinary ambassador for Drake University and the City of Des Moines,” said Drake President Marty Martin. “He provides joy and support to everyone with whom he comes in contact and is a proud embodiment of the Drake commitment to transform lives and strengthen communities. His positive impact on our campus and our city has been immeasurable.”
Griff II, who stepped into the role on July 1, 2020, quickly became much more than a mascot; he’s been a loyal member of the Drake family, known affectionately as “Des Moines’ hometown dog.” Throughout his time, he has embodied the very best of the Bulldog spirit—a perfect blend of proud loyalty, curious intelligence, and gentle affection.
“It feels bittersweet as we announce Griff II’s retirement. Griff II is in great health, but after six years of dedicated service, he’s earned a long and happy retirement,” said Erin Bell, live mascot program director. “We encourage everyone to come celebrate him throughout this final academic year—he deserves all the love and praise. And I assure you, he has been an active participant in the Griff III selection process. It’s no secret who calls the shots around here.”
A Legacy of Joy and Dedication
Griff II leaves behind a significant legacy spanning athletics, academics, and community engagement:
- Campus Presence: He has welcomed countless students and community members to campus, elevated the atmosphere at Drake Athletics events, brought a calm demeanor to high-stakes presidential debates, appeared on stage in the Drake Fine Arts production of Legally Blonde, and made countless appearances to support current and prospective students, alumni, and the greater community.
- Community Impact: Griff II has been a pillar of the community and a model dog-citizen, dedicated to charitable work through the Griff Gives Back program, which supports animals and humans in need. The community donated more than 180,000 pounds of pet food over the last 10 years through this program. As a certified therapy dog, Griff II also lent support to countless members of the University and Des Moines communities over the years.
- Education and Outreach: In between naps, Griff II has actively promoted literacy and a love of learning. Griff II is known throughout the city for making the rounds each October dressed as a character from a popular children’s book—the very book read aloud to elementary students during his story time visits. In total, Griff II conducted more than 70 Halloween literacy visits over 6 years.
- National Fame: His irresistible charm has captured the hearts of the community and the nation. During the men’s basketball Missouri Valley Conference tournament, his presence helped the Drake team go on a 9-0 winning streak. Griff II and his custom letterman jacket earned viral recognition on national TV broadcasts and even inspired a public petition demanding he be allowed onto the NCAA tournament courts.
Transition and Celebration Timeline
Griff II will maintain his post through the remainder of the school year, allowing time for the community to celebrate his career highlights through all planned events for the year—from athletics events and the Beautiful Bulldog Contest to the iconic Drake Relays.
The University is planning many celebrations for the remainder of the academic year, culminating in a retirement party in May 2026. The celebrations will kick off today with two events—the first open only to faculty, staff, and students of Drake, and the second open to the public:
- Today, Tuesday, Dec. 2 (3–4 p.m.): Celebration for Griff II on the Pomerantz Stage—open to faculty, staff, and students of Drake University.
- Today, Tuesday, Dec. 2 (6:30 p.m.): Griff II will be honored at the men’s basketball game at the Knapp Center against Western Illinois—open to all ticketholders. Tickets are available here.
The Next Generation
Griff II has already identified his successor, and a training period has begun. Details on the next official Drake live mascot will be revealed on Thursday, Dec. 4, with a planned opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to meet him in person the following day.