The University of Mississippi campus is full of animals beloved by students, from globe squirrels to honor carp. Among these unofficial mascots is Gary the Guyton cat, a black and white pet who holds a special place in the hearts of many on campus.
Frequently found wandering around Guyton Hall in the School of Education, Gary has become an integral part of campus since his appearance in November 2021. The cat is in the care of Feral College Rebel Rescue Team and has received a lot of love and attention from educators and non-educators alike. -The same applies to students majoring in education.
Elle D'Angelo, a junior education major, took her adoration of Gary to the next level by creating an Instagram page showcasing her cat's daily life. She emphasized what Gary's living situation was like.
“He usually hangs out in Guyton's courtyard and has a 24-hour heating blanket in his house,” D'Angelo said. “He always has fresh food and water, but he loves when people stop by to give him treats.”
Gary is unofficially known as the mascot of the Faculty of Education.
“He definitely became our mascot,” D'Angelo said. “We had shirts made, he was on posters (and) he was on our postcards and stuff.”
Cat videos are one of the highlights of the internet, and Gary's Instagram page is no exception. D'Angelo said people constantly send him funny videos and photos of Gary, and it's easy for him to post about once a week.
“I have over 1,000 followers, so it’s really fun,” D’Angelo said.
While many students and faculty love visiting Gary, D'Angelo revealed that he also has a female feline friend.
“He has a girlfriend in Kappa Sig, so if you see him crossing the street, that's what he does,” D'Angelo said.
Gary's life on campus includes regular events and fundraisers in his honor. Last fall, Gary celebrated his fifth birthday and enjoyed his birthday party, but this festival is more than just a celebration for the cat. The party also featured a raffle to win special Gary memorabilia, including Gary-themed ornaments and pillows, with all proceeds going to his FURR.
Gary is a very sociable cat and is almost always with us. He loves eating treats and batting around his many cat toys. He is very cheerful, but takes some time to get used to.
“It took him a semester to really open up to me,” D'Angelo said.
A popular tradition among students in the College of Education is for Gary to attend graduation ceremonies.
“We film him walking all year long,” D'Angelo said. “And as you walked in, Gary walked up.”
Senior interdisciplinary studies major Mabry Freeland acknowledged that Gary loves visitors and attention.
“He's a very sweet guy,” Freeland said. “He loves coming over to people, as long as he doesn't make too much noise. He rubs your legs and stuff.”
D'Angelo said he believes Gary is the glue that binds MIT education majors together.
“You know, I feel like he brings a lot of people together in the School of Education,” DiAngelo said. “Even my professor said at the beginning of 'Fun Facts' that she's not really a cat person, but she loves looking at cats.”
Our love for Gary extends beyond the School of Education. Lochlyn Wilczynski, a freshman law major, talked about his fascination with felines.
“I love (Gary) very much. He's really sweet and he can be playful sometimes,” Wilczynski said.
While Gary hangs around the south side of campus, his gregarious reputation follows him everywhere at UM.
“Gary would love to see you,” D’Angelo said. “Here, sit down and bring me a treat, he loves treats. Come and play with him.”
