WALTHAM, Mass. – The Brandeis University Department of Athletics is proud to unveil a bold new secondary logo, marking the triumphant return of one of the most recognizable symbols in Judges history—Ollie the Owl.
A fixture of Brandeis Athletics for more than seven decades, the owl has represented the spirit and pride of the Judges since the department's earliest years in the 1950s. Now, Ollie returns with a fresh, modern look that honors the University's rich tradition while embracing the future of Brandeis Athletics.
"The owl has always held a special place in the history of Brandeis," said Jessica Chapin '10, Director of Athletics. "This new design celebrates our past while giving us an exciting, spirited identity for the future. Ollie represents the pride, resilience, and community that define the Brandeis experience, and we're thrilled to welcome them back."
Created by Skye Design, a full-service New York City based design agency specializing in logo design and sport branding, the new secondary logo blends heritage with innovation. Featuring Brandeis' signature navy and white, the design also incorporates a light blue accent as a tribute to the University's original colors of white and light blue, connecting today's brand to Brandeis' earliest identity.
The new design replaces the original owl iconography, which was modernized in the 1990s through a University-wide design contest won by alumnus Stephen Silver '84. Silver's dynamic interpretation of Ollie served as the face of Brandeis Athletics for nearly two decades before judge and gavel imagery was introduced in the early 2000's. In 2024, the department launched its new primary "B" logo, and this summer, the next chapter of the Brandeis brand comes to life with the reimagining of its most beloved mascot.
The excitement around the reintroduction of Ollie will continue with the return of Ollie the Owl as Brandeis' costumed mascot. Fans will get their first look at the newly redesigned Ollie during Brandeis Homecoming on October 3, when the mascot officially makes its long-awaited debut, bringing energy, school spirit, and a renewed sense of tradition to campus. Ollie will maintain a consistent presence on campus thereafter, including appearances at other key events like Alumni & Family Weekend beginning on October 23.
The return of Ollie is more than a new look; it's a celebration of Brandeis Athletics' history, an investment in its future, and a symbol that will unite generations of Judges fans for years to come.
