Hoping to get rid of its Bugs Bunny look-alike mascot, South Dakota State University (SDSU) has unveiled the new and improved Jackrabbit mascot design.

These new designs were inspired by more than 18 months of gathering and researching insights through surveys, 8,000 e-mail comments, contest, feedbacks from the alumni, and focus group discussions all over the state.

In the end, the winning mascot design was picked out of 250 local and international submissions in the “Design the Jackrabbit” contest. The outcome is a major transition from a cuddly costumed mascot to a new Jackrabbit with sleek lines and more intense looks.

SDSU also adopted from one of the finalists a word-mark “Jacks” logo design featuring distinctive ears and tail. Apparently, several vendors and news media are asking for a shortened version of the mascot.

In addition, this image makeover comes in a very opportune time as the university is “gaining a reputation for cutting-edge research and economic influences.” The new mascot design supposedly reflects a “modern feel” that is very fitting on the school’s focus on innovations and future advances.

Luckily, the former costumed rabbit created in 1971 will remain part of major SDSU events and will continue to entertain the future generations, alumni and kids.

via GoJacks.com