The College of the Redwoods board of trustees has postponed final approval on a new mascot in order to solicit more feedback from the community.

This past fall, CR formed a mascot task force and invited suggestions from students, faculty, employees and some community members.

According to a press release, “College of the Redwoods is progressing in its efforts to rebrand its longstanding Corsair mascot, working toward a new symbol that reflects the college’s values and strengthens its connection to the region and local communities.”

The Corsair has been the school’s mascot since CR was founded in 1964, but concerns over the name have been raised recently “due to its historical associations with Mediterranean piracy and the transatlantic slave trade.”

“While the Corsair has been with us from the beginning, it lacks any local relevance and carries a history that no longer reflects who we are as a college,” CR President Dr. Keith Flamer said. “It is our responsibility to ensure that our public symbols align with our values and honors the community we serve.”

Submissions were evaluated based on cultural sensitivity, local significance and alignment with the college’s mission.

According to the press release, “Of the three finalists, the wolf emerged as a leading option, especially among CR Athletics.

“The wolf was submitted as a mascot suggestion by the Wiyot Tribal Council, whose ancestral lands include the Eureka campus and surrounding area. 

“It is known in the Wiyot language as Mouralherwaqh, meaning wolf’s house.” 

The local college is seeking additional feedback before a final decision is made and anyone interested can provide feedback through this link.

Community members can share feedback on the proposed rebranding until May 4.

The press release added, “The potential new mascot—the Redwood Wolves—would reflect both the ecological presence of wolves in California and the deep cultural ties to the land on which the college resides.”

“The CR Board of Trustees is committed to governing on behalf of the citizens of our District,” said Board President Dr. Colleen Mullery. “The board delayed action on renaming CR’s mascot to provide further opportunities for student, faculty, staff, and community feedback. 

“I am grateful to Trustee Pedrotti who requested that this agenda item be pulled during our April 1 meeting to allow for further deliberation. I also want to thank the task force members who already have spent time studying this question.”