Bearcats

for life

Tell us your story

Your Bearcat journey inspires others. Once a Bearcat, always a Bearcat. Share your story to celebrate the connections, experiences and pride that unite Bearcats everywhere and help future Bearcats see what’s possible.

Bearcats for LIfe Spotlight

UC Alum Cashmere Wright

Cashmere Wright

"Being a Bearcat for life means more than just cheering for Cincinnati — it’s who I am. The University of Cincinnati shaped me on and off the court, teaching me what hard work, discipline, and community really mean."

Read more Bearcats for Life stories

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Jac Kern

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

Jac Kern, Bearcats for Life

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Maddie Bell

BEARCATS FOR LIFE

Discover how UC alumna Maddie Bell turned her Bearcat experience into a lifelong passion for community and purpose. Her story proves that being a Bearcat doesn’t end at graduation — it’s just the beginning.


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UC taught me the values of teamwork, philanthropy and discipline. It’s where I formed lifelong friendships and where I met my husband. Without the University of Cincinnati, I wouldn’t have the life I cherish today.

Kylee Gemmer Class of '18

Find Out What Makes You a Bearcat for Life

UC students sitting on stairs talking to eachother

Discover Where You Belong

Every Bearcat has a unique spark — whether you’re driven by ambition, creativity or community. Take our short quiz to see which type of Bearcat you are and discover how UC can help you turn your passions into purpose.

Take the quiz, get your result and share it using #BearcatsForLife to show your UC pride.


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I’m a Bearcat for Life because UC turned ambition into action and teammates into family. The mix of spirit, service and real-world problem solving at UC is the Bearcat way — now and for life.

Thavishka Gamage Class of '26

UC students learn the traditional "Down the Drive" cheer

What it means to be a Bearcat for Life

Discover the story behind our namesake — from the real bearcat animal to the UC spirit it represents — and how being a Bearcat is more than a name, it’s a lifelong community.

Many people grabbed a quick picture with the bearcat mascot while at the pep rally or while waiting in the family weekend check in line.

Refer a Future Bearcat

No one inspires future Bearcats like those who’ve lived the UC experience.

Share the name of a student who would thrive here — and help them start their own Bearcat story.