Schools
Vic The Demon Celebrates 100th Birthday
Northwestern State University's famous mascot "Vic the Demon" marked his centennial which was celebrated at Iberville Dining Hall
Northwestern State University’s (NSU) famous mascot "Vic the Demon" marked his centennial which was celebrated in style at Iberville Dining Hall.
On November 8, The University Programming Council partnered with NSU Campus Dining by Sodexo to create a fitting birthday tribute. The event included a photo station, custom cupcakes, buttons, and the singing of happy birthday led by the school cheer team.
A special appearance was also made by NSU's Miss Lady of the Bracelet 2023. Another longstanding NSU tradition, the Lady of the Bracelet pageant is a competition which scholarships are awarded to female students. The first place winner of the pageant is awarded the title of "Lady of the Bracelet" for one year.
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It all started one hundred years ago on November 8, 1923, by proclamation of President V. L. Roy and Coach H. Lee Prather, that all NSU athletic teams became known as the Demons. The name was decided upon by a contest open to all students with a grand prize of $10.00.
According to the University website, a committee was appointed by the President to narrow down the names submitted by the student body. Final selection was decided by a vote of the students.
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The two most popular choices were Braves and Demons. Among other names submitted by students were Sharks, Daredevils, Musketeers, Pelicans, Prather’s Ground Hogs, Bloodhounds, Cyclops, and Serpents.
The official winners were Aileen Ritter and Truett Scarborough.
On September 22, 1984, the Demon received his official name via another contest, sponsored by the NSU Athletic Department. The contest was open to faculty, staff, and students. Over 300 entries were submitted to the committee.
The grand prize was an all-expense paid weekend at the Louisiana State Fair Classic. Ray Carney, an alum of the University, was the official winner with “Vic” which is short for “Victory”.
"We are so glad we got to open this celebration to an even bigger and welcoming place for everyone to eat and have a good time,” said Noah Melvin, NSU UPC Community Outreach Supervisor. “We love planning Vic's party every year and being able to invite and include everyone."
