Blaze the Panther is Craven Community College's beloved mascot. While Craven Community College has always been home to the Panthers, Blaze joined the college in summer 2023 and was named in October following a contest among staff, faculty, and students.
Knight the Panther, the college's previous mascot, retired in August after 10 years of service to the college. We are not sure where Blaze the Panther came from or how long he's been on the prowl, but he has plenty of school spirit already with a furry blue coat and a green Craven Community College jersey.
Students and staff submitted 114 names for consideration, leaving the the Hurst Student Ambassadors with the difficult task of choosing their top five candidates: Blaze, Rave, Thunder, Prosper, and Jet. With nominations complete and the ballot set, 247 votes were cast through October as students and staff campaigned for their favorite Panther name. Blaze's name was finally revealed with a celebration in Ward Hall that included cupcakes in his honor.
If you would like to have Blaze attend your event, please contact the Office of Campus Life.