Growling Bear logo coming out of the vault for Family Weekend

This Family Weekend, students’ loved ones aren’t the only ones coming to Waco. Also returning: Baylor’s iconic Growling Bear, which is coming out of the vault for a limited time.

First introduced in 1969 after a design contest organized by head football coach Bill Beall, the Growling Bear logo was selected from more than 75 entries. The winning design was created by Elmer Fisher (BA ’51), a longtime classics professor and diehard Baylor football fan, in collaboration with law student Joey Taylor (BA ’68, JD ’71).

With its fierce expression, the Growling Bear became an enduring emblem of Baylor spirit, remaining in use until 1997 — making it Baylor’s longest-standing bear head logo. The Growling Bear’s nearly 30-year run included two Southwest Conference football championships and eight bowl appearances. In fact, it was proudly worn throughout the legendary 20-year tenure of head coach Grant Teaff (1972-92).

Its tenure also saw Baylor’s enrollment nearly double, from roughly 6,500 students to over 12,400, and campus growth that included the Ferrell Center, Draper Academic Building, Hooper-Schaefer Fine Arts Center, and Castellaw Communications Building.

With such history, the Growling Bear mark represents a season of growth, resilience and success for the Baylor Family. To honor its legacy, the University is launching an exclusive collection featuring the Growling Bear mark; the collection includes pieces from trusted Baylor licensees such as Horn Legend, Champion, Nike, Jardine, Logo Brands, Homefield Apparel, L2 Brands, and Daly Goods. You can find these items exclusively in store and online at the Baylor Bookstore through the end of September.

Sic ’em, Growling Bear!