GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — There’s a new face in town, and he’s already turning heads — and not just because of his horns.

Colorado Mesa University unveiled its new live mascot Thursday afternoon to a crowd of cheering students, faculty, and fans — the latest iteration of “Rowdy,” a steer bred for Maverick pride, trained for campus appearances, and destined to charge onto the field at football games this fall.

The new Rowdy isn’t just a symbol. He’s a living, breathing ambassador of CMU’s cowboy-tinged spirit — and he’s got the charisma (and horns) to prove it.

Horns, Halters, and Herding School Spirit

This Rowdy is no ordinary bovine.

He’s a longhorn-Angus crossbreed, hand-raised by the CMU Rowdy Wranglers — a student-led group responsible for training and caring for the university’s iconic live mascot. The steer’s calm demeanor, steady gait, and camera-ready presence made him the clear favorite among four candidates who were introduced as calves earlier in the academic year.

“We started with four, all raised from just a few months old,” said Colby Malpass, senior agriculture major and president of the Rowdy Wranglers. “They’ve been halter-trained, trucked to events, and exposed to loud crowds. This one just stood out.”

After months of training and appearances at campus functions, CMU students were invited to vote on which calf would become the next Rowdy. The ballot was open for a week. The results were clear: Grand Junction had found its next four-legged star.

Meet Rowdy: Steer, Symbol, Showman

With a striking black coat, a gentle swagger, and horns expected to stretch to classic longhorn proportions, the new Rowdy made his public debut with style.

He’s expected to assume all official mascot duties by fall 2025, which include:

• Running onto the field at CMU football games

• Marching in parades and homecoming festivities

• Attending alumni and university-sponsored events

• Greeting fans, students, and young Mavericks-in-training

“This isn’t just about showing up to football games,” said Malpass. “It’s about building a connection between the students, the ag program, and the greater community.”

And while Rowdy’s role is ceremonial, he carries more than tradition — he represents a bridge between CMU’s agricultural roots and its modern, metropolitan ambitions.

Retirement for a Local Legend

As the new Rowdy enters the arena, the old one steps out — gracefully.

The previous Rowdy, also a steer, officially retired this semester. After years of leading cheers, enduring photo ops, and anchoring campus celebrations, he now enjoys the kind of retirement any hardworking mascot would envy: roaming freely in a wide pasture on the outskirts of town.

“He served this university well,” Malpass said. “We owe him a lot of respect — and maybe a few extra treats.”

A Living Mascot Tradition, Revived

Live animal mascots are increasingly rare in American universities, especially amid concerns about animal welfare and logistics. But CMU’s program is built differently — deeply student-run and focused on care, respect, and training.

“It’s not a gimmick,” said Dr. Lori Vincent, professor of animal science at CMU. “It’s a student-led livestock program that’s given real-world experience in training, husbandry, transport, and public engagement.”

The Rowdy Wranglers, founded in 2013, select new steers every few years and manage their socialization, feeding, vet care, and scheduling — often juggling it with full course loads and internships.

“It’s a 24/7 job sometimes,” admitted Wrangler Ashley Mora, a junior. “But watching him walk across the football field in front of a roaring crowd — it’s the most rewarding thing.”

Students Choose the Star

The final vote to select Rowdy was open exclusively to CMU students. The voting process took place online, with all four calves — each trained and presented at events throughout the school year — having their own profiles, photos, and even nicknames.

“Students really got into it,” said Travis Hickman, CMU’s Director of Student Engagement. “It became a conversation piece. Everyone wanted to know who the next Rowdy was going to be.”

Over 2,000 votes were cast. That number — nearly one-third of the student body — underscores the enthusiasm surrounding the program and its mascot.

Here’s a look at the final tally:

Shadow — now officially “Rowdy” — took the lead early and never looked back.

Branding, Identity, and Community Pride

CMU’s decision to maintain a live mascot reflects broader efforts to build identity and boost student involvement. For many in the Grand Junction area, Rowdy has become a recognizable symbol of Maverick pride — even outside of sports.

“You’ll see Rowdy on a banner downtown, then meet him in person the next day,” said Hickman. “It makes CMU feel tangible. Like it’s part of the daily rhythm of this town.”

Local businesses often partner with the university for Rowdy-themed events. Elementary schools request visits. Even some wedding parties have requested the steer for photo ops.

It’s unusual. But it works.

A Horned Herald for Fall

Rowdy’s first major public performance is expected this fall at the CMU Mavericks’ home opener football game. If tradition holds, he’ll charge onto the field ahead of the players, flanked by the Wranglers and the cheer team, to a roaring crowd.

The Wranglers are already prepping him for the limelight.

“He’s still growing into those horns,” Malpass said with a grin. “But when you see him run out onto that field, you’ll know — that’s our Rowdy.”