Bucky Forever Fund

Bucky the Beaver (2023)

Meet Bucky, Bemidji's favorite beaver

Beaver graphic dark green

Have you seen a buck-toothed, tail-wagging, dam-building mascot on the loose? No doubt you saw Bucky the Beaver doing his thing.

Bemidji State's beaver mascot has been around since at least the 1950s in one form or another. Today's version of Bucky has him looking younger, fresher and peppier than ever.

Our "Beavers" nickname dates back nearly a century. As President Manfred Deputy reviewed football practice one evening in May 1932, he remarked that the players were "working hard as beavers." He called the team into a huddle and, raising his hands above their heads, declared, “I christen this team the Beavers!”

Just like that, an identity was formed. And Bucky was well on his way to becoming perhaps the most recognizable face of the university.

The Bucky Forever Fund

We believe that mascots bring an irreplaceable flair to campus, driving up school spirit and university pride. That's why we're investing in it.

About the scholarship

The Bucky Forever Fund is a new scholarship initiative awarded to students who excel academically and serve as Bemidji State's mascot at athletic games, university events and more.

This scholarship fund is designed to foster school spirit, reward dedicated students and build a sense of community among alumni and current students. The BSU Alumni & Foundation is committed to making this fund a success to ensure the continued presence of our beloved mascot.


To be eligible for the Bucky Forever Fund scholarship, applicants must:

  • Be a current student or incoming freshman
  • Serve as the official university mascot
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
  • Demonstrate commitment to the role of the mascot through documented participation in school events

Preference will be given to Bemidji High School graduates.

Donate

You can play an active role in the scholarship by making a donation and helping the Bucky Forever Fund maximize its potential for current and future students. Click below to get started.

Battle of the Mascots

The inaugural Battle of the Mascots – which pitted Bucky the Beaver against Lumberjack Jack – was full of hijinks, drama and dancing! The showdown wasn't without controversy however. Read the recap by clicking below.

2024.0203.BOTM Round 3 sled race
Courtesy / Visit Bemidji
2024.0119.BOTM Round 2 Bucky and Jack

The evolution of Bucky

Beaver graphic dark green

Bucky has come a long way over the years. Here's a look at how Bucky has grown up since he first popped up on campus.