New Era, Same Spirit Rooted in Our History and Traditions

Long before the campus had its newest buildings, upgraded fitness and athletic spaces or vibrant student life, Smiddy stood as an enduring symbol of our school spirit. As UVA Wise’s beloved mascot, he watched generations of students arrive unsure of themselves, find their ways, grow stronger and more confident, and leave the college a better place. For years, that was enough.

But recently, something felt different.

It started small. Smiddy noticed the hum of construction in the mornings, the energy in the weight room late at night, and the buzz of students pushing themselves to excel academically, physically, and socially. He saw friendships forming in residence halls, late-night study sessions turning into big ideas, and students transforming right before his eyes.

One evening, as the sun dipped behind the mountains, Smiddy sat overlooking campus and had a realization: everyone around him was growing and evolving, except him.

The students were leveling up.
The campus was transforming.
The energy was rising.

And Smiddy, sadly, hadn’t changed much. 

That didn’t sit right.

Inspired by the community, especially UVA Wise students, Smiddy made a decision: if the College he represents is growing, then he should too.

So, he got to work.

He trained alongside students in the weight room, pushing himself to become stronger. He explored every new corner of campus, reconnecting with the spirit of curiosity that defines the college. He spent more time with students, learning what drives them today. He observed their aspirations, resilience and pride. 

Slowly but surely, Smiddy began to change.

Not just on the outside, but on the inside too.

He became more energized, more in tune with the pulse of campus today. While he will always honor his roots, his look evolved to match that transformation which made him sharper, stronger and ready for the future.

Smiddy’s evolution is more than just a “glow up.” It’s a symbol of growth, just like the students he represents. It stands for the idea that progress matters, that we are proud of where we come from, and that no matter how established you are, there’s always room to level up.

Smiddy wants all of the students he cheers on to know he’s inspired by them, with them, and that at UVA Wise: 

We never stand still.
We grow.