On April 1, 2023, the Shippensburg University community was changed forever. Lives were changed and Raiders everywhere rejoiced as Shippo the Hippo was born.
Shippo has been waiting for their chance to cause mischief across campus since 2005 when they narrowly lost to Big Red to become SU’s mascot. Shippo found their way back seven months ago and has been living it up ever since.
“I don’t like to be bitter, but I waited 17 years while Big Red got to have all the fun,” Shippo said. “It’s my turn to have some fun…and maybe cause a little trouble.”
Shippo and Big Red have a best-friend rivalry, but they just can’t stay away from each other. Big Red is older and more mature, whereas Shippo loves to explore and be the center of attention, sometimes to the dismay of Big Red.
“Shippo can get on my nerves, but I just can never stay mad at them. We are best friends forever,” Big Red said.
Shippo also has a more youthful spirit than Big Red, and they have been known to bust some moves across campus at events like the Juneteenth celebration and Fall Welcome Week.
“Shippo is like that kid who plays with flowers while everyone else is playing T-ball,” Big Red said.
“You know, I just like to have fun and show Big Red how it’s done,” Shippo said. “As I had to show off at the Homecoming pep rally, I can’t resist a good wobble!”
Shippo could not wait to take advantage of their first Homecoming week at SU and even rode in style on a 1920s-themed golf cart with Megan Luft and the admissions team. Shippo loves to chat, but The Slate could barely get our questions out without one of their devoted fans coming up to ask for a picture.
Shippo gave us six short words to sum up their time at SU so far.
“I’m here now. Look at me!”
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