Although Indian River State College has chosen the Falcons as it's new mascot, I believe that otters would best represent IRSC. Certainly, the “Pioneers” moniker may continue with an otter visual. But it’s better to accept change and find new ways to convey the pioneering spirit.

For instance, “The Spirited Otters”.

Being that the school is nicknamed “The River”, the otters will already be associated as river otters, however, the word spirited brings something else to the table – energy, enthusiasm, and determination.

These qualities are associated with the pioneering spirit, and by incorporating this term we continue the tradition of being pioneers, in spirit. It also recognizes and emphasizes the value that we place on it.

Spirit is vital and essential.