ƹƵ’s (RCBC) mascot, Barry the Baron, will receive a new and improved look ahead of the fall 2025 semester. On August 26, before the college’s annual Welcome Back BBQ, which kicks off the semester with games, food, and information about college resources for students, there will be an official ‘Reknighting Ceremony’ where Barry will debut a bold, upgraded suit of armor.
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Barry was introduced as RCBC’s mascot during the 1987-1988 academic year and made his on-campus debut in 2018. With exciting fanfare, he was knighted at an official ceremony in the college’s central student hub, the Student Success Center (SSC).
“For the past seven years, Barry has been an indispensable part of the ƹƵ community, spreading cheer and goodwill in his quest to help everyone transform their lives through education,” RCBC President Dr. Michael A. Cioce said. “Barry cannot wait to show off his new look and start the academic year in grand Baron style.”
Barry’s shiny silver plate armor suit, red cape, and red comb on his helmet quickly became iconic on the RCBC campus. These elements will remain in spirit on the new suit but will receive technical enhancements fit for the future. For example, Barry traded his heavy metal suit for a sleek, chainmail-inspired set of armor.
Barry’s indispensable sword, the Sword of Truth, and shield, the Shield of Knowledge, were also improved. After seven years of fighting to protect access to high-quality and affordable education, the two important components of his outfit saw significant wear.
Those interested in attending the event should arrive at the patio outside the SSC cafeteria by 2:45 p.m., just before the barbecue—free to students—starts at 3. Afterwards, attendees can enjoy the other festivities until 5 p.m. Barry, in his new suit of armor, will stick around for photographs.
Learn more about the Welcome Back BBQ and RSVP for the event .
