This past semester, the LMU Theatre Arts Costume Lab was tasked with a significant undertaking with the highest level of sensitivity: refreshing an integral member of the lion community—none other than Iggy the Lion himself. Led by Costume Shop Manager Tammie Merheb-Chavez and Costume Shop Assistant Elizabeth Gerds, the project engaged theatre arts costume craft and work-study students Katie Lowe, Kaylee Greene, Ethan Mullen, Gillian Mozdy, and Xuiqi Li in a collective effort to refresh LMU’s beloved mascot.
Iggy, who has been LMU’s spirited mascot for almost a century (though this specific style has only been in use for about a decade), had shown signs of wear and tear from his many enthusiastic appearances at sports games, pep rallies, and community events, including a high-profile appearance an L.A. Rams game at SoFi Stadium on December 3 for “LMU Day at the Rams.” The much-needed refresh included a repainting of his nose, fixing his teeth, and completely redoing his mane to restore his iconic look.
Merheb-Chavez was delighted when the LMU Marketing and Communications team approached the department about the project and saw it as a unique opportunity for her students in the costume lab. “Working with LMU’s beloved mascot allowed the students to take ownership of their learning journey and empowered them to actively engage in a professionalizing process,” she said. “By providing students with opportunities to explore real-world applications of their studies and learn the process of working with other departments acting in a client capacity, we are not only fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter but also nurturing essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.”
During the renovation, Iggy became an unexpected highlight of campus tours for prospective students, cementing himself as a campus celebrity in his own right. His in-process state added a touch of intrigue and excitement, illustrating the university’s commitment to maintaining its traditions and community symbols. Plans are for Iggy to be complete and ready to go for the new school year this fall.
Iggy’s role extends far beyond just entertaining sports fans; he embodies the spirit and culture of LMU, serving as a rallying point for both current students and alumni. According to Merheb-Chavez, her students were particularly invested in the project because of this. “When students are excited about what they are learning and see its relevance in the world around them, they are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and successful. By creating an environment that values student input, encourages creativity, and promotes lifelong learning, we are setting our students up for success both academically and professionally.”
