Name-a-Day Calendar, November 29: Bethune–Cookman Wildcats

Page 23 of 365

Chosen in: 1923

Chosen by: Institute founder Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune

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What is now Bethune–Cookman University came to be in 1923 as the result of a merger between a girls’ school and a boys’ school in northeastern Florida. The founder of the former, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, loved football and went not only to games, but also to practices. After one particularly vigorous practice, she addressed the team: “You are ferocious. I dub thee the Wildcats.” And when you’re the head honcho, what you say goes.

Check out this photo of Dr. Bethune with the 1924 football Wildcats.

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