During the board of education meeting on May 28, Sewanhaka High School Principal Nichole Allen proudly announced the school’s new mascot, the Ravens.
The yearlong process of selecting the new mascot and logo involved the assistance of a committee comprised of alumni, students, faculty and community members, as well as assistance from Jostens. It was important to the committee to honor Sewanhaka’s almost 100-year history and pay homage to Native American culture when selecting the new mascot. The school also hosted a community survey to collect ideas for what would be most important or wanted in a new mascot.
The three options narrowed down by the committee included aviators, ravens and wolves. After a community poll, wolves and ravens remained as options. On May 21, the final vote was held, and votes were tallied on May 24.
“The committee was determined to honor the traditions, culture and history of Sewanhaka High School,” Principal Allen stated. “The school is almost 100 years old, and these decisions cannot be taken lightly. The committee worked hard, and the students of Sewanhaka thank them for their time and commitment to this endeavor.”
Senior Elliott Lamotte, who served on the committee, noted, “The mascot is an important part of our history. We wanted to make sure we got this right – and students took this seriously. It is also an exciting time for our school, and it was an honor to be part of the process.”
Ms. Allen revealed a mock-up of the logo during the board meeting. The final artwork is still in process. The new logo keeps the school’s colors of purple and gold. Grace Amofao from Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages’ Office attended the board meeting, as well, and she announced that Solages will be gifting the district $200,000 to help offset the costs of changing the mascot on school grounds, uniforms and more.
“As important as the selection of the new mascot for Sewanhaka High School, the Ravens, is the inclusive process that was followed,” interim Superintendent Dr. Thomas Dolan said. “Students, staff, alumni and community members were polled and involved in the process every step of the way in this year long journey. They were ably led by Principal Nichole Allen and Assistant Principal Christine Licastri, who is a Sewanhaka High School alum.”
District Director of Athletics Matthew McLees added, “I am very happy with the choice of Ravens as the new mascot for Sewanhaka High School! The building leadership of Principal Allen and Assistant Principal Licastri should be commended on this yearlong project. The mascot makes Sewanhaka unique as the only high school on Long Island to be called the Ravens. The colors fit nicely, and the connection to Sewanhaka history remains intact.”