Estimated read time: Less than a minute
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Dixie State University is planning changes to its mascot and school nickname, but officials say they won't alter the official name that some say has racist connotations.
Authorities at the university in St. George said Monday they've hired a public relations firm and are forming a committee to change the nickname Red Storm and the mascot called Big "D'' the Bull.
Administrators say their research shows people want a clearer, more authentic brand. They plan to finish the process in 2016.
#poll
There have been calls to change the name Dixie, but supporters say it has local meaning with no racist connotations.
Dixie is a nickname for the South, particularly the states that were part of the Confederacy. In Southern Utah, the name dates back to the 1800s, when Mormon settlers tried to grow cotton there.
Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.