Drake University bid a fond farewell to Griff II during a formal retirement and “Changing of the Harness” ceremony at Old Main today. The event honored Griff II’s more than six years as the University’s beloved live mascot while also appointing his successor, Griff III.
Drake University President Marty Martin presided over the event, ceremonially removing the harness around Griff II and placing a custom-fitted “Griff III” harness around the one-year-old English Bulldog, marking the start of a new chapter for the University’s Live Mascot Program.
The Live Mascot Program at Drake serves as a vital bridge between the campus and Des Moines communities. Griff II’s tenure was defined by an era of warmth and companionship, providing a constant source of support and joy for students, faculty, staff, and fans alike. His impact reached far beyond campus as he leveraged his role as a certified therapy dog to champion extensive charitable efforts. Whether he was offering support to those in need or visiting area elementary schools to inspire a love of reading, Griff II’s presence benefited countless members of the University and Des Moines communities. Additionally, the official “Griff II” social media accounts spread joy to tens of thousands of fans on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X. Griff III will now take over these accounts.
“Griff II has been far more than a mascot; he has been a tireless ambassador and a cherished member of the Drake community,” said Martin. “He has embodied our commitment to transforming lives and strengthening communities and will leave an indelible mark on the hearts of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and neighbors. Today, we celebrate his impact while excitedly appointing Griff III our official live mascot.”
About Griff III
Having trained for his new role since December 2025, the 13-month-old pup is ready to continue the legacy of his predecessors. Born to the same family as Griff II, Griff III is a smart, eager-to-please, and energetic young bulldog that radiates happiness and enthusiasm. His curious, gentle, and goofy nature make him the ideal pup to spread joy to the campus community and fans alike. As with Griff II, you can expect to see Griff III at many campus events, student campus tours and visit days, and athletics events, as well as all the community and elementary school visits made popular by Griff II. He will continue the program’s legacy of community service through initiatives like Griff Gives Back, which garners thousands of pounds of pet food donations each year, benefitting the Pet Project Midwest.
Program history
While the costumed mascot, Spike, has served as the face of Drake for decades, the introduction of a live mascot added a new dimension to the University’s activities and athletic events. The program traces its roots to a charismatic English Bulldog named Porterhouse, who won the 2009 Drake University “Beautiful Bulldog Contest.” His owners, Kevin and Erin Bell, began bringing him to Drake athletic events, where he quickly became a campus fixture. Following Porterhouse’s passing, Drake formally established the Live Mascot Program in 2015, appointing Erin Bell as its director.
“What began 15 years ago with Porterhouse has evolved into a cornerstone of the Drake experience,” said Bell. “From Griff I’s special appearances during the 2020 Iowa Caucuses to Griff II’s steady presence through the pandemic, it’s been an incredible journey. I’m thrilled to continue this work with Griff III and to watch his unique personality shine.”
Griff II to graduate
Though his successor has taken on the harness, Griff II will make one final public appearance during Drake’s 156th commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 17, at 10 a.m. at the Knapp Center. In a fitting farewell, Griff II will “graduate” from his official duties, crossing the stage alongside the Class of 2026—after which he plans to bask in a retirement full of snacks and snoozes at home with his family, including his brother and best friend, Griff III.