View complete article and references at Commemorative Landscapes of North Carolina at: https://docsouth.unc.edu/commland/monument/445

Description: The statue depicts "Tommy", the mascot of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Tommy is a bronze hawk, 22-inches tall with a 57-inch wingspan weighing 150 pounds. The bird, with its wings outstretched as if just landing, is perched atop a large, natural granite boulder. A small bronze plaque with the inscribed dedication is mounted on the front of the boulder.

Images: Inscription

Nickname: Tommy Hawk

Inscription:
"Tommy" / The Red-tail Hawk is a gift from the Class of 1999. / This tribute honors the spirit of UNCP Braves. / Seek the hawk within yourself / Dedicated: February 10, 1999 / Artist: Paul Van Zandt

Dedication date: 2/10/1999

Creator: Paul Van Zandt

Materials & Techniques: Bronze statue, granite base

Sponsor: Native American Design Services

Post dedication use: In recent years, the monument has been used as a good luck charm.

Subject notes: The statue is meant to resemble the red-tailed hawk, a bird indigenous to Robeson County. The hawk statue was a gift from the UNC-Pembroke Class of 1999. Students and visitors are encouraged to rub the rock for good luck.

The sculptor, Paul Van Zandt, is a retired emeritus professor of sculpture at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

Controversies: The mascot was originally named "Tommy Hawk". However, in 2012, in conjunction with the 125th anniversary of the University, an effort was begun to give the mascot a new and more culturally sensitive name.

Location: The sculpture is located in front of the James B. Chavis University Center off Faculty Row.

Landscape: The sculpture sits in the grass quad area between campus buildings. A paved walkway leads to the boulder which is surrounded by seasonal plantings.

City: Pembroke

County: Robeson

Subjects: Animal Monuments,Educational Institutions,Mascots