Columbia-Greene Community College unveils new mascot, the Guardian

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 29, 2026

COLUMBIA-GREENE COMMUNITY COLLEGE UNVEILS NEW MASCOT, THE GUARDIAN
College also announces return to NJCAA D-III in 2027-2028 academic year

HUDSON, N.Y. (April 29, 2026) – Columbia-Greene Community College (“Columbia-Greene”) unveiled its new mascot, the Guardian, before students, faculty, and staff earlier today.

The Guardian, a black bear adorn with armor, is the result of a deliberate process that was student-first, representing the spirit of both Columbia and Greene counties.

“This mascot is more than just for athletics. It is something that represents our community. It represents the new wave of college, our region, and our counties into one fun, physical form. The Guardian is here to protect our students,” said Caitlin Twomey, assistant dean of students who led the process.

(L-R) Gary Ginsburg, SUNY chief communications officer; the Guardian; Doreen Davis, board chair for Columbia-Greene Community College; Dr. Victoria Walsh, president, Columbia-Greene Community College (photo credit: Relentless/C-GCC)

The mascot was developed in collaboration with Tilt36T.

Columbia-Greene also announced it will return to intercollegiate varsity athletic competition, starting in the 2027-2028 academic year.

“The new program will be rooted in student-athlete academic success first and foremost, ensuring our athletes are supported in the classroom as they are in competition,” said Joel Phelps, vice president of student success.

For more information about Columbia-Greene Community College and its academic programs, visit columbiagreene.edu.

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About Columbia-Greene Community College: A campus of the State University of New York (SUNY), Columbia-Greene Community College (“C-GCC”) is a comprehensive, two-year institution offering a variety of transfer and career programs leading to the Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, and Associate in Occupational Studies degrees, as well as micro credentials, one-year certificate programs, and specialized courses geared toward community interest.