The Legacy of Iggy the Lion

According to university lore, Iggy’s mountain lion ancestors made their home on the Westchester bluff, overlooking the burgeoning city of Los Angeles. Some suggest that Iggy’s great-great-grandfather flirted with Hollywood stardom, perhaps inspiring the famous MGM lion, though the truth remains wrapped in mystery. While such tales remain speculative, the connection between the lion pride and LMU has become undeniably strong, symbolizing the university’s steadfast commitment to excellence, resilience, and communal bonds.

Lorenzo M. Malone, S. J. with Betty the Mountain Lion, and C. T. Truchsel, 1935

A Mascot Rooted in LMU's Mission

From his earliest days, Iggy’s journey has been shaped by values intrinsic to LMU’s mission: the pursuit of knowledge, the cultivation of creativity, and the call to serve others. Raised in a pride emphasizing collective strength and intellectual growth, Iggy inherited a profound appreciation for tradition and innovation. His playful spirit and inquisitive nature reflect the dynamic environment of LMU, where students and faculty strive to address contemporary challenges with both rigor and compassion.

Football coach Tom Lieb poses for a photograph with Lions mascot Lil' Akron.

The Symbol of LMU

When he assumed the role of university mascot, Iggy embraced this responsibility with an understanding of its significance. He recognized that being a symbol of LMU meant not merely fostering school spirit but also serving as a beacon of the university’s commitment to developing the whole person. Iggy’s journey, therefore, is one of inspiration—an invitation to future generations of Lions to engage boldly with the world around them while remaining grounded in the values of integrity and service.

Iggy with 1994 WCC Volleyball Champions

Iggy's Origins

A fan once said that Loyola's football players were "as fierce as lions." The enterprising journalists with the Loyolan student newspaper soon advocated for adopting the lion mascot in 1923, hoping to raise school spirit during an exciting era for Loyola football. By the 1930s, Loyola's athletes were the Lions, and later, the embodiment named Iggy. Check out our beloved Iggy over the years, and how he's evolved to always meet the moment.