By Diane Holtz
First of all, what is a Griffon, and why are you our mascot?
That’s an easy one. In 1917, the students decided the college needed a mascot. One of them, Norman Knight, created me. He said the Griffon, a cross between a lion and an eagle, was a mythological guardian of treasure, and education was a precious treasure that you had to work hard to obtain. I guess all the students thought that was pretty cool.
What do you think has been the biggest and best change for Missouri Western?
I think it was when we became a four-year college and moved out to our present campus. We were a junior college scattered in several buildings downtown, and now we have a 723-acre beautiful campus. That’s pretty awesome, and I’m glad I was there to see it and have been able to watch it continue to grow.
And you’re based on a mythological creature?
Yeah, I know, that kind of caused an existential crisis for me. Do I exist? Am I real? I decided that, yes, I do; yes, I am; and my purpose is to spread Missouri Western spirit and inspire students to work hard for their education.
Why Max? Are you named after someone?
Yes, but it’s complicated. In 2005, I was named after Max Grooms, an avid supporter of Missouri Western Athletics. But in the 1990s, I was called Sam, and then that changed to Sampson a few years later.
How do you fill your days?
Well, I’m really busy going to Missouri Western athletic events. Throw in parades and pizza parties in elementary schools, and I don’t have much spare time. When I do, I like to hang out in the bookstore, looking at myself on shirts and stuff.
What is the most challenging part of being a mascot?
That’s an easy one; getting mauled by kids. Don’t get me wrong, I love kids, but boy, do they love me, too. Maybe it would help if I wasn’t such a fun guy, but, hey, that’s just me.
