Meet the Mascot

The Mystery of Bucky

Why did you want to be Bucky?

I am very curious by nature. I like to know what is going on and be a part of it too. I had done theater for seven years, and I really enjoyed that. I thought this would be very similar, so naturally I thought I would be good at it. The scholarship was enticing as well. My parents have helped me pay for college, so I wanted to make it easier on them as much as I could. Plus, I thought it was a really cool new experience that would be a challenge for me to take on.

What’s a typical week for Bucky?

Once a week my team and I plan out everything. We plan where I am going to be, who is with me, what I wear, everything regarding anything going on around campus. We also plan out my social media content as well. We film at least one Tiktok a week to post every Thursday. Every Friday I have Blue Friday with the Zaxby’s chicken. Every week I write four letters to students and staff just to encourage people or make their day better. That is the bare minimum of my typical week. Add-ons include Sweet 16 events, CSU sporting events, events that I have been requested at, and just going around campus doing my crazy Bucky stuff. I occasionally have to respond to emails and put events into my calendar. Sometimes I have to run to the store to get new clothes or other things I might need.

Why the secret identity?

It is easier for everyone to just see Bucky as Bucky. If you put a face behind it then the magic is ruined in a sense. Once you figure it out you can’t get the feelings of curiosity and excitement from not knowing who it really is back. I personally love the idea of a secret identity. It is almost like a superhero. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to do it.

What do you like about being CSU’s mascot?

No one knows who I am so I can do whatever I want and not really get embarrassed. I love being in control of what I get to do as Bucky. It is really fun to just be a total goofball and make everyone smile around me. I like being a distraction from the pains of the real world for people. I love being able to bring joy to others through Bucky.

What are some of your favorite moments?

In February, I really wanted to do something for all the girls. I got tons of flowers and cheesy pirate puns; I made a Valentine’s Day playlist, and then gave every girl I saw a flower while they were serenaded with music. They were all really surprised and happy. I have had the honor of kayaking across the reflection pond. That was cool because it was a lot of fun and everyone was so shocked. I have never seen as many people around the pond all at once. I got to go to a Stingrays game, walk around, get on the ice and play a little broom ball game against kids. There were a ton of other mascots there, so it was really cool to play off each other.

Serving CSU

There is always someone that is alone or just having a bad day that needs a break or distraction. I try to prioritize finding the one in the crowd. Ultimately Bucky brings joy to everyone and has been a light shining in the dark time that we are all still currently in. My goal as Bucky is to bring unity to our campus, to make it a happier place, and to help people enjoy their limited time here. At the end of the day, if someone is happy, or feels a sense of community because of Bucky, then I have done my job. It is all about the CSU family and what makes them joyful.

The person who plays

Bucky will be revealed when that person graduates from CSU.

Bucky at Whirlin’ Waters. Photo by Ty Cornett