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Emporia State University Unveils Bold New Look for Corky the Hornet

ESU Welcomes New Era for Hornet Nation with Modern Mascot Suit

Emporia, KS (11/03/2025) — Emporia State University celebrated its rich tradition, pride and recent university progress by revealing a new Corky the Hornet mascot suit during their homecoming game on Saturday, Nov. 1. The reveal, a highlight of ESU's Year of Celebration, introduces a modern and bold look that reflects Hornet Nation's strength, distinctiveness and confidence.

The new suit features an enhanced version of Corky's signature hornet head, characterized by a sharp grin, powerful eyes and confident expression. He is dressed in a Power E shirt, bold gold pants and matching shoes. The university is unveiling the mascot's new look at a time of transformation for ESU, including:

  • Millions in investments in academics, people and campus infrastructure.
  • 6% enrollment growth in fall 2025.
  • A $30M financial correction, which eliminated a $19M budget deficit.

"Corky's new look showcases a stronger, faster, bolder version of the Hornet we all know and love," said Kelly Heine, ESU executive vice president operations. "As Hornet Nation steps into a new era of elevated academic programs, financial performance, community impact, student recruitment, retention and affordability, it's important that Corky represents our university's strong stature."

While the mascot suit is new, Corky is not. The design originated more than 85 years ago from ESU alumnus Paul Edwards, who created the mascot. Until Edwards' passing in 2018, he was the creative force behind each of Corky's numerous iterations.

About Emporia State University

Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its institute and seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business & Technology, Humanities & Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, Library and Information Management & Library and Archives, Science & Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.

ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate.

For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.

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Emporia State's new Corky mascot is highlighted by fireworks.

Emporia State's new Corky mascot features a modern and bold look.

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