Student-Stories, Academics, Student-Life, Athletics
Concordia University Texas introduces Golden-cheeked Warbler as secondary mascot
September 30, 2026
Student-named Volt reflects student voice and university’s connection to its natural environment as Concordia Texas enters its next century
Concordia University Texas has introduced a Golden-cheeked Warbler, an endangered songbird native to Central Texas, as its new secondary mascot, marking the university’s upcoming 100th birthday while adding another mascot for generations to come. Volt, named after a voting contest by Concordia Texas students, represents student expression, curiosity, creativity and the ideas that shape what comes next. The name was unveiled after Pack the House Chapel Service on September 30.
The new mascot also reflects our connection to its natural environment and the university’s commitment to learning from, caring for and protecting the natural world entrusted to its care.
“Few university campuses offer students such an immediate connection to the natural world right outside their classroom,” Dr. Sam Whitehead, director of the environmental science and conservation program said. “The Golden-cheeked Warbler reminds us that our campus is more than a place where students come to learn. My hope is that Volt connects students to the place they call home.”
Over six weeks, students developed the mascot’s identity by submitting name ideas and voting on the finalists. Students cast more than 400 votes before selecting Volt, a name intended to reflect who the Golden-cheeked Warbler is, where he lives and what he will represent for future generations of students.
The Student Reaction
"Volt feels natural as a mascot—like he’s been here with us this whole time,” Concordia senior Gwendolyn Brown, who is part of the Concordia Ranger program, said. “I’m excited to see how students and faculty integrate him into campus life—see his story and personality—and how we will spread our own ‘wings’ for decades to come.”
Our vision is that Concordia University Texas is the premier nature and environmental university in Texas. Learn how we honor and protect our environment.
CTX Life-changing StewardshipThe Mascot Pair: Volt + VorTex
Volt and Concordia Texas’ primary mascot VorTex the Tornado have distinct and complementary roles. VorTex represents the force of the Concordia Texas community, carrying its strength, resilience and momentum. Volt represents the voice, reflecting the ideas, expression and creative energy of Concordia Texas students.
Volt’s Historical Significance
The Golden-cheeked Warbler joins the university’s mascot story as Concordia Texas celebrates its 100th anniversary in October. The addition of Volt creates a new way to celebrate the university’s history while looking toward the students and ideas that will shape its next century.
Volt’s connection to Concordia Texas also draws from the university’s campus in northwest Austin. Concordia Texas has a 250-acre federally protected nature preserve, part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, on its 440-acre campus. The preserve provides opportunities for students to engage with the natural environment through learning, research and environmental stewardship. The Golden-cheeked Warbler is a federally listed endangered species that resides on the campus preserve.