MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Continuing a West Virginia University tradition, Reese Allen officially began his duties as the 72nd Mountaineer mascot Friday (April 17) during a symbolic rifle passing ceremony at the Mountainlair.
Allen, who was named the next Mountaineer mascot during a men’s basketball game at the Hope Coliseum on Feb. 28, is a senior dual mechanical engineering and data science major from Bridgeport.
A 2022 Bucklew Scholar, Eberly Scholar and member of the Honors College, Allen served as a Presidential Student Ambassador and is the founding president of the Microgravity Research Club in the Statler College, where he leads STEM outreach activities for K-12 students.
Allen hasn’t shaved off his beard since he was a freshman, hoping to one day wear the famous coonskin hat and buckskins to represent WVU and the entire Mountain State.
“The Mountaineer mascot stands out as a symbol that speaks to the rich heritage and deep history of our wonderful state,” Allen said. “Representing WVU is my great honor and privilege, as it gives me the chance to spread my love for the University, celebrate West Virginian success and give back to the state that has made me all that I am.”
Allen accepted the rifle from Cade Kincaid, the 71st Mountaineer mascot and a senior accounting major from Fayetteville.
“The thing that stands out the most to me is the sheer number of communities that I’ve touched and integrated with,” Kincaid said. “During my time as the Mountaineer mascot, it was really cool to see the broad span of West Virginia.”
During his time in the buckskins, Kincaid represented the University at more than 400 events.
“As the Mountaineer mascot, Cade has diligently worked to promote WVU, West Virginian heritage and the students that are shaping West Virginia’s future,” Allen said. “His Mountaineer spirit speaks to his love for WVU and the state and his passion is inspirational.”
Prior to the formal ceremony, a reception was held to celebrate Kincaid and welcome Allen.
Speakers at the ceremony included former Mountaineer mascots Timmy Eads (2019-2020), Mary Roush (2022-2023) and Braden Adkins (2024-2025).
The event was presented by the Mountaineer Mascot Program and Mountain Honorary.
