70 years ago this weekend, Peruna, SMU’s live mascot, had her grand debut in front of the Mustang fans. The date: November 4, 1932, the location: a pep rally.
“Cy Barcus, a former student and the director of the Mustang Band at the time, is credited with the idea,” said Judith Banes, director of recreational sports for SMU. He donated Peruna I, who served from 1932-1934.
According to Banes, in 1934, Cully Culwell donated Peruna II. The
Culwell family continues this tradition and has donated every mascot since then.
There have been several past birthday parties in Peruna’s honor, but this one is special.
“Mike Culwell and his family will be honored at half-time for this contribution,” Banes said. “The Culwell family, during the capital campaign, started an endowment fund to help care for Peruna.”
There will be a special ceremony celebrating the anniversary of Peruna at this weekend’s home football game versus Nevada. According to Banes, there will be a brief history given and a tribute to the Culwells. Then the band will play “Happy Birthday.”
“We’re celebrating 70 years of tradition…a rare thing at SMU,” Banes said.
Mustang fans are excited about the upcoming festivities.
“My favorite part of the football games is when Peruna runs across the field,” said Jordan Marshall, a third-year SMU student. “She is so cute and represents the team well.”
David Lott, a former Peruna handler said Peruna is the physical embodiment of the SMU spirit.
“Running with Peruna is a unique element of the excitement you get by being down on the field,” Lott said “Peruna provides a sense of connection to SMU that makes students want to support the Mustangs.”