For institutions around the world, mascots serve many purposes, such as raising school spirit and energizing sports teams. But mascots also can breed discord. In recent decades, some schools have been challenged to replace controversial Native American mascots while others have encountered resistance when introducing different mascot designs. Considering the challenges of selecting a mascot that embodies an institution's unique character, it's no surprise that Hampshire College in Massachusetts is taking its time with the decision. Administrators at Hampshire, which recently joined the Yankee Small College Conference for athletics, say they understand the importance of adopting a representation in which students, faculty and staff, alumni, and fans can all take pride. The only question is, will that representation be an animal, a vegetable, or something else?