Jonathan XV testified in favor of a bill that would make the Siberian Husky the Connecticut state dog.
Jonathan appeared virtually over Zoom with one of his handlers, Laura Centanni, to read his testimony to the General Administrations and Elections Committee on March 8.
Centanni is a student at the University of Connecticut and co-chair of Alpha Phi Omega’s Husky Committee, responsible for caring for UConn’s official mascot and a local host family.
Centanni read the testimony explaining the long lineage of huskies that came before Jonathan XV. Jonathan I was named after Connecticut’s first governor, Jonathan Trumbull and arrived on campus in 1935.
“14 Huskies like me presided over the exciting history of the University of Connecticut, and while it’s a great responsibility, I am excited to be the next iteration of a symbol that unites our state and energizes Nutmeggers nationwide,” Jonathan said in the testimony.
Jonathan’s testimony supported the House Bill 5304- an act designating the state dog and state candy.
The testimony was favored by many members of the committee. If passed, it would create a symbol of unity between the state and the university.
“It would be a great honor to me and my Siberian Husky brethren to be designated as our great state’s official dog,” Jonathan said in the testimony.
14 Huskies like me presided over the exciting history of the University of Connecticut, and while it’s a great responsibility, I am excited to be the next iteration of a symbol that unites our state and energizes Nutmeggers nationwide.
Jonathan XV, UConn Mascot in a Testimony
Centanni explained the work that went into preparing Jonathan for the big day, which includes a pre-event workout, familiarizing him with the testimony, briefing him on the committee proceedings and putting on his business collar.
“This testimony was a unique and exciting opportunity to showcase Jonathan as the newly officiated mascot of UConn and just how far he has come in his training, which has been constant and ongoing since he arrived home on June 17, 2023,” Centanni said.
Centanni said Jonathan is a fast learner, and preparation of his responsibilities is a persistent effort of his host family and handlers to allow him to be confident and comfortable. Centanni added he participates in daily exercises to ensure he is calm during important events.
“Jonathan gets at least three hours of exercise every day, between running on his treadmill, playing with his brother, handlers and family, and his daily walks around campus. It’s hard for him to understand he must remain calm when everyone around him is so excited, and he always wants to join in on the fun,” Centanni said.
Jonathan XV officially took over as UConn’s mascot in a “Changing of the Collar” ceremony in February. The ceremony, which took place at halftime on Gampel Pavilion court during a men’s basketball game, began the next era of the UConn mascot tradition and retired Jonathan XIV to an “emeritus” status.
Jonathan XV was born on April 19, 2023 and was publicly introduced two months later at a UConn Board of Trustees meeting. Since then, he has been in training and learning from his big brother, Jonathan XIV. Now, Jonathan XIV, who will celebrate his 11th birthday in the fall, is stepping out of the light, allowing more time for him to relax, according to UConn Today.
Centanni said Jonathan XV is just beginning his official mascot duties, being the face of a division 1 and research 1 university and is doing a great job.
“We are so proud of him for how far he’s come in his training, and so glad he had this opportunity to showcase his hard work!” Centanni said.