Meet Leo the Lion – Laurel Ridge’s Beloved Mascot
Leo the Lion proudly represents the spirit, strength, and unity of Laurel Ridge Community College. As our mascot, Leo brings energy and excitement to campus events and community celebrations. Whether he’s cheering on the sidelines or posing for photos with students and families, Leo is a symbol of pride for the Laurel Ridge community.
A Roaring Beginning
Leo’s journey began in January 2013, when the college announced a new chapter in its school spirit. In a campus-wide vote, students, faculty, and staff chose the “Lions” as the new mascot, replacing “Cannons.” This marked the beginning of Leo’s legacy as a symbol for the college’s growth and impact in the Shenandoah Valley.
Why a Lion?
The lion was chosen as the college’s mascot to embody qualities that reflect the values of Laurel Ridge:
- Learning – Like the lion’s instinct to grow and adapt, our students are encouraged to pursue knowledge with curiosity and passion.
- High Performance – Lions are focused and agile, much like our commitment to excellence and accountability in education.
- Integrity – The lion’s noble presence symbolizes the honesty and respect we uphold within our community.
- Positive Spirit – With energy and enthusiasm, Leo inspires a “can-do” attitude across campus.
- Diversity – Just as lions thrive in diverse prides, Laurel Ridge celebrates the uniqueness of every student and community member.
More Than a Mascot
Today, Leo is more than just a background figure. He’s a cherished part of the Laurel Ridge experience—welcoming new students at orientation, celebrating achievements at commencement, and spreading joy at community events. Leo reminds us all that with courage, leadership, and unity, we can achieve great things—together.
Leading Like a Lion at Laurel Ridge
At Laurel Ridge, leadership is more than a title — it’s a mindset. Inspired by Leo the Lion’s bold and confident spirit, students are encouraged to step into leadership roles and make a difference on campus and beyond.
Students can develop their leadership potential by:
- Joining or leading student organizations and clubs
- Participating in campus events and service projects
- Taking part in student government and peer mentoring
- Engaging in community outreach and volunteer opportunities
These experiences help students build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and become leaders in their own right — both during their time at Laurel Ridge and in their future careers.
