Mascot - University of Niagara Falls Canada

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Say hello to Spark

UNF’s mascot is here to ignite school spirit and cheer on our community. Spark is ready to make every movement more memorable!

Born from the falls, built for the future

Long before Spark became the face of University of Niagara Falls Canada, legend tells of a clever little fox who lived near the rushing waters of the iconic Horseshoe Falls.

Drawn by the roar of the powerful cataract and the pulse of possibility in the air, this fox wasn’t like the others. While most stayed among the trees in the Niagara Glen, Spark explored the edges of the digital world, sniffing out new technologies, and discovering how humans were using ideas to shape the future.

He watched as a new university came to the city, an institution built on connection and innovation. It was unlike anything else: digital at its core and bold enough to challenge the way things had always been done.

Spark knew this was no ordinary university. It was a beacon. A signal. A spark, like him.

So, the fox stepped forward, not just to observe this new institution but to join it. With eyes full of curiosity, Spark became part of UNF’s journey. Not just a mascot, he is a guide for all who want to explore, to question, to build, and to imagine boldly.

Spark reminds us that the future belongs to the curious. Ideas can flow like water, shaping paths, overcoming obstacles, and carving out new worlds.

And now, every time Spark appears, we’re reminded: Innovation Flows Here.

Finding our Spark

In Spring 2025, students, staff, and faculty were invited to submit their suggestions for what the fox should be called in UNF’s Mascot Naming Contest. From more than 270 submissions, three top names – Spark, Inno, and Thunder – were put to a final vote. Spark emerged as the clear favourite, chosen by the UNF community.

The name was suggested by Master of Management student Laden Akyildiz. She was honoured with a limited-edition UNF Foxes jersey and special recognition during the Student Leadership Awards Celebration in June 2025.

Get to know Spark Q&A

Read this interview to learn more about UNF’s favourite fox, Spark.

As a fox, I like to think outside the box. Ever since I was a young pup, I have had a knack for sniffing out new ideas and learning about the next big thing. Being the mascot for a university that focuses on innovation and digital learning allows me to continue pursing my passions and promote the amazing work being done at the university.

The people! Foxes are highly sociable animals, and I am no exception! I love the diversity of Niagara Falls and how easy it is to make friends. I also love the natural beauty of the area and enjoy peaceful morning walks along the Niagara River or catching the mist off the famous falls. The natural wonders of the area keep me feeling curious and inspired!

When I’m not repping UNF on campus or at a community event, you can find me spending lots of time in our city’s historic downtown. Whether I’m enjoying a delicious meal at one of Queen Street’s go-to restaurants or visiting local shops in the downtown core, I am always exploring what Niagara Falls has to offer. My favourite places to explore nature include the Niagara Glen, Dufferin Islands, and Heartland Forest.

I am a bit of a trivia buff. Foxes are known for being clever and I try to live up to that reputation. From fun facts about Niagara Falls to the world of academics, I consider myself a vault of knowledge and try to prove that learning can be fun both inside and outside the classroom.

I encourage students to never be afraid to ask for help. The team at UNF is here and ready support you every step of the way on your academic journey. Just like a den, our campus is a home base. It’s an environment where you can grow and gear up for the big adventures ahead.

It’s easy to #BeTheSpark at UNF! There are plenty of opportunities for students to volunteer and get involved on campus. You can start by checking out the volunteer board in the myUNF student portal. If you’d like to meet up with me, keep an eye on the UNF student events calendar and follow our social media for opportunities to join in. When you see me around, be sure to say hi, take a selfie, and share it using #SparkUNF!

Land acknowledgement

University of Niagara Falls Canada acknowledges that the land we gather on is located on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee, Hatiwendaronk and Anishinaabe peoples. We also acknowledge the many other First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples who call this region home.

We commit to building relationships based on respect, reciprocity, and reconciliation as we work, learn, and gather on this land. Furthermore, we acknowledge that the Niagara region is situated on treaty land, and we stand with all Indigenous peoples, past and present, in promoting the wise stewardship of the lands on which we live.

Designated Learning Institute Number: O287430643972.

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