Charlotte businessman and philanthropist Irwin "Ike" Belk commissioned noted sculptor Jon Hair to design and create a symbolic mascot for Winthrop in 2005. Unveiled in October 2006, the 12-foot bronze eagle weighs 3,000 pounds and took 18 months to complete. The design was based on the university's athletics logo. It sits atop a 20-foot concrete and brick pedestal, also designed by Hair, that is located to the left of the university's main entrance at Eden Terrace and Oakland Avenue. For more photos of Winthrop's newest landmark, click here.