DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) - Drake University’s English Bulldog mascot, Griff II, will retire in May at the end of the school year.

The school is holding a celebration for Griff II on the Pomerantz Stage at 3 p.m. Tuesday.

He will also be honored at Tuesday night’s men’s basketball game against Western Illinois.

More than a mascot

Griff II, also informally named George after the university’s first president, George Carpenter, has been “Des Moines’ hometown dog” since July 1, 2020 .

He leaves a legacy of community engagement — spanning from sporting events to musicals , even presidential debates .

Alongside his celebrity status, Griff II has supported students as a certified therapy dog.

When he’s not out and about, he’s probably napping.

The retirement is bittersweet for Erin

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