Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) features a goat as its mascot, affectionately named Gompei, a tradition stemming from an early campus resident and a dedicated student caretaker.
The Enduring Symbol of WPI: Gompei the Goat
The presence of a goat as WPI's beloved mascot is rooted in a unique historical event involving a student and a campus animal. This tradition has persisted through the years, making the goat an iconic symbol of the institution.
The Role of Gumpei Kuwada
The origin story of WPI's goat mascot dates back to a time when a goat was kept on campus. A student named Gumpei Kuwada was tasked with tending to this goat. His selection for this unusual responsibility was quite specific: he was chosen because his initials, G.K., serendipitously aligned with the job title of "goat keeper."
A Legacy Honored: The Name Gompei
The tradition of having a goat as the official mascot of WPI continues to this day. In a lasting tribute to the original student caretaker, Gumpei Kuwada, the current mascot proudly bears the name Gompei. This naming convention ensures that the unique history and the student's role in establishing this tradition are remembered and celebrated by the WPI community.
