Houston Christian University (HCU) mourns the passing of its beloved mascot, Wakiza “Kiza” II, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 19 with her handler, HCU alumna Hunter Smith by her side.
Adopted from Houston’s Husky Haven, the female Siberian husky joined the University as its new “live” mascot in 2010 thanks to the support and generosity of The Williams Family Foundation. HCU alumna Diane Williams ’93 and husband, Stanley, their son and daughter-in-law, Jay and Dena Williams, and son-in-law and daughter, Clay MBA ’96 and the late Dawn Trozzo, made the adoption possible through their support of the HCU Mascot program through the years.
Kiza II was introduced during HCU’s annual freshmen orientation and registration luncheon on June 15 and served for 7 years before retiring during the 2017 Homecoming season, passing the torch to “Wakiza Kiza III” during a special scarfing ceremony.
Hunter recalls one of her favorite memories of the beloved mascot at a HCU basketball game. “She howled and barked during the opening prayer. The person saying the prayer said she was just praising the Lord,” shared Hunter.
She also recalls Wakiza’s TV debut during the HCU vs. Sam Houston State University football game where she performed all her tricks for the camera.
Associate Vice President for Alumni & University Relations and HCU alumna Candace Adams-Desrosiers ’94, expressed appreciation for the role Wakiza played and the hearts she touched at the University.
“Having a live mascot at a university adds such a special member to the spirit team. Also, being an alumna of the University, it was always fun to take pictures of my daughters with her at games and events on campus. It was like they grew up together! Kiza II was very “discerning” in who she loved, and I felt so honored that she loved me. I loved her too!” said Desrosiers.
Kiza II will be missed by students, administrators, faculty and staff alike, including Hunter Smith ’15 who welcomed her as a cherished member of her family following the beloved mascot’s retirement. Her former handlers also included Rob Wiser ’10, Shelby Fives Varughese ’14 and Richie Reitmann ’15, who also mourn her loss.
Photo gallery photos: Michael A. Tims/University photographer
