Rutgers University-Newark Launches Student-Designed Spirit Apparel Line Featuring New Mascot
In an exciting development for the Rutgers University-Newark community, the university has officially introduced its new mascot, a charming fox named Scarlet Raider. Coinciding with this unveiling, a brand new line of spirit apparel has been launched, crafted by the talented students of the Newark School of Fashion and Design. These students showcased their creativity and design skills by creating a range of clothing that not only embodies school spirit but also aims to connect with the local community.
The apparel, prominently featuring the new Scarlet Raider logo, was modeled by the very students who designed it during the launch event. This line of athletic wear draws inspiration from the vibrant history and culture of Newark, with designs that reflect the renowned "Newark" marquee, associated with the old Paramount Theatre. This connection to the city’s artistic roots highlights the collaborative effort between the university and the local talent.
Kimberlee Williams, Director of Communications at Rutgers-Newark, expressed the significance of this partnership, noting that it allows students to engage in real-world branding initiatives as they contribute to the university's evolving identity. The project also involved students from the Rutgers Business School, who developed promotional strategies under the guidance of Marketing Professor Yla Eason, who is notably recognized for creating Sun-Man, a groundbreaking African American superhero action figure.
This initiative is a testament to the continued collaboration between Rutgers-Newark and the Newark public school system, with the aim of nurturing local talent and providing students with hands-on experiences in the world of fashion and branding. Superintendent León emphasized the importance of such collaborations, showcasing how they empower young creatives in Newark to showcase their capabilities while enhancing the university's image.
The introduction of Scarlet Raider isn't just about a mascot; it's about establishing a deeper connection between Rutgers-Newark and the Newark community. The idea of featuring a fox as the mascot started back in 2017 when students voted for an animal symbolizing qualities such as ingenuity, resilience, and versatility. After extensive design competitions conducted by graphic design students from the School of Arts and Sciences-Newark, the winning design was brought to life by Phoenix Designs, a company specializing in university mascot design.
In addition to creating the apparel, the Newark School of Fashion and Design students also crafted costumes for the Scarlet Raider, including playful designs such as kilts, jerseys, and zoot suits. This inclusive approach has transformed the mascot into not just a university symbol but a cultural icon representing community pride and collaboration.
High school student Maria Colodetti described the project as an eye-opening experience, stating, "We really gave the Rutgers Newark Mascot a fresh new look, and it reflects what it means to be a Scarlet Raider." The students conducted thorough research through feedback sessions with their peers, analyzing trends to ensure their designs resonated with the university audience.
The students didn't stop there – they engaged with local businesses and retailers on Halsey Street, gaining insights into current fashion trends and consumer preferences, further enhancing their designs. Throughout this academic year, they collaborated in brainstorming sessions, concept development, and prototype creation, all while adhering to university branding guidelines.
Aaron Spiegeland, Associate Director of Trademarks and Licensing at Rutgers University, provided invaluable insights on branding, while Amy Skiles from Phoenix Designs offered guidance on graphic design techniques, ensuring that the new identity of Scarlet Raider was not only visually appealing but also branding compliant.
As the apparel line is launched, items range in price from $31 for basic tees to $176 for premium leather varsity jackets, with availability limited to a certain period after the launch. This initiative marks a significant milestone, blending educational experience with community engagement, while setting a standard for student-driven innovation in the realm of university branding. The response to this project illustrates the power of collaboration, demonstrating that when given the opportunity, students can redefine what’s possible for themselves and their communities. The future looks bright for both Scarlet Raider and the students of Newark as they embark on this creative journey together.