Greenwood, South Carolina – Piedmont Technical College Introduces New Mascot: Blaze the Phoenix
As students returned for the first day of fall classes this Monday, Piedmont Technical College (PTC) brought an exciting surprise. President Dr. Hope E. Rivers stood proudly outside the Student Center on the Greenwood campus to unveil the new PTC mascot: Blaze the Phoenix.
“Blaze isn’t just a name; it’s a powerful symbol of action each of us can take as a Phoenix,” said Rivers. “Just as a single spark can ignite a roaring flame, each of you has the potential to light up your own path, to blaze a trail of success, and contribute to the warmth and the strength of our community,” Rivers added enthusiastically.
The introduction of the new mascot signifies a deeper meaning. Blaze represents the spirit of renewal and transformation, a key theme that mirrors the student journey at PTC. This sentiment was echoed by the overwhelming support from the college community, evidenced by a survey where 90% of respondents endorsed the idea of having a mascot.
The initial concept of the PTC Phoenix mascot was presented earlier this year during Spring Activities Day, symbolizing inspiration and renewal. This ties in with the college’s ongoing efforts to promote academic excellence, transform lives, strengthen communities, and enrich the overall student experience. Dr. Rivers highlighted how students, faculty, and staff engaged in the process. “At that time, we asked for your feedback to find the perfect name for our new mascot,” she recalled.
The college community submitted a total of 33 potential names for the mascot. These were then narrowed down by the PTC Mascot Committee to three finalists: Felix, Blaze, and Ash. Voting commenced among the college community in the spring, culminating in the selection of the name Blaze.
Following the reveal, students excitedly gathered to take photos with Blaze in the Student Center. They were treated to phoenix-themed giveaways, free cupcakes, popcorn, and bottled water, making it a memorable first day of classes.
The introduction of Blaze is expected to enhance school spirit and build a stronger sense of community within PTC. As a visually striking symbol, Blaze will boost brand recognition and be a pivotal aspect of marketing endeavors. Embodying the college’s values, the Phoenix is anticipated to attract new students and elevate the college’s appeal.
About Piedmont Technical College:
Piedmont Technical College (PTC) is a comprehensive two-year institution offering hands-on training in the latest technologies and skill sets sought after by regional employers. Located in Greenwood, the college also operates campuses in Abbeville, Edgefield, Laurens, McCormick, Newberry, and Saluda counties. Together, these campuses serve over 8,000 students annually, focusing on transforming lives and strengthening communities through education.
