Waseda University needed a new mascot, a character that could gain the affection and attachment of people of every generation. It would replace "Fuku-chan", symbolize the start of our 'second century’ and demonstrate,the appeal of the rejuvenated Waseda University, both on and off the campus. We approached professional designers and cartoonists, selected mainly from among our alumni, and received about 60 candidate works. A selection committee of 14 chose the three best.
Then, a survey carried out to judge the three finalists’ creations among students, alumni, members of staff and others, using postcards and e-mail. The final selection, made by our Executive Board, was the work of comic book writer Kenshi Hirokane (who graduated from the School of Law in 1970), and was given the name 'WASEDA BEAR'.

The new mascot, 'WASEDA BEAR', was officially unveiled at the Homecoming Ceremony on 22 October, 2000. By courtesy of Mr. Hirokane, all rights relating to the 'WASEDA BEAR' mascot belong to the University.
Henceforth, we expect that 'WASEDA BEAR' will be widely used in the University's various advertising media and web pages, in commemorative events, and on branded merchandise.