Whether catching them at a sporting event or several community and campus events, people may wonder how TC and TK stay so well groomed and healthy while exhibiting their Panther pride on a daily basis. TC and TK work long, strenuous hours promoting their spirit for UNI as they stand as important icons representing UNI. Keeping up their clean, spiffy appearances at all times has become essential.  

“We can only clean them up and brush their fur so many times before they really need a head-to-toe makeover, if you see what I’m getting at.” Sarah Crim Alumni Relations, Graduate Assistant said.

Since fall, students have been raising money for TC and TK through Philanthropy at Work, or “PAWprint.” By doing this, TC and TK are able to receive their desperate maintenance because student organizations and the program are able to help raise the money they need. 

“TC and TK put in about 2,000 plus hours volunteering at UNI events, personal events, schools, and even parties. They deserve this.” said Connie Hansen of the UNI Alumni Association.

The Alumni Association board originally came up with the idea to use “PAWprint” when the budget issues came up during their Homecoming meeting.  

Crim said that after the Alumni Association heard the budget report and the high costs of repairs, they unveiled the “PAWprint” idea. Crim said the Alumni Association would support their decision to continue with fundraising for Team TC and TK.

In addition to supportive figures, President Ruud and his wife Judy have supported the mascot program since coming to UNI. They both agreed with the decision to raise funds in addition to spreading the word about this giving opportunity. 

“We are so fortunate the president and his wife have been the biggest cheerleaders,” Hansen said.

TC and TK have been raising money since they were given the opportunity. They would love the support and are accepting donations from anyone willing to help out.  

As fundraisers for the program, TC and TK have hosted Breakfast with TC and TK in the past. This year they worked with UNI cheer and dance teams selling UNI Spirit Squad calendars. 

Hansen explained a typical mascot uniform head to toe runs to be about $10,000-$12,000. Since TC and TK only need “new fur” the cost is about $7,000. Already the UNI Alumni Association, UNI Athletics, and UNI University Relations/Marketing have raised $4,345 putting them about 45 percent away from their goal. 

“The fundraising campaign has existed mainly through social media, which allows us to reach students, staff, alumni, friends, and fans anywhere,” says Crim. 

University students may donate by online donations at pawprint.uni.edu, or by simply stopping by the UNI Alumni House with their donations in an envelope with their name on it, so they can be put on the donators list. Other ways students can help are by donating water, air fresheners, Lysol wipes, and other things of that nature to the UNI Alumni House. 

“Our crowdfunding campaign can receive money from anyone. Most of our donations thus far have come from alumni, staff, or family members of the team, but if every student donated even $5, we’d reach our goal in no time,” said Whitney Stoolman, senior communication major.

The campaign only runs until Friday, Feb. 27. Individuals are thrilled for this opportunity to help reach TC and TK’s goal.

“It is nice to see our favorite mascots getting better uniforms. I’m excited to see what they will look like all groomed.” said Hannah Day, senior history major.