ward–winning special effects artist Tom Woodruff Jr. ’80 ’18H brought Lycoming’s vision — a mascot born of legacy and built for battle — to reality. Inspired early on by watching classic Universal monster movies, Ray Harryhausen’s stop‑motion animation, and a formative viewing of “Planet of the Apes,” Woodruff developed a passion for make‑up effects and filmmaking. Using his father’s 8mm camera at age 13, he began creating films and later pursued independent studies in theatre, writing, and make‑up effects at Lycoming. Following graduation, the Williamsport native moved to Los Angeles and joined Stan Winston’s team on “The Terminator” and contributed to major projects such as “Aliens,” “Predator,” and “Amazing Stories.” Woodruff’s physical performance skills led him to portray iconic creature roles in films including “Pumpkinhead,” “Leviathan,” “Alien Resurrection,” “Alien vs. Predator,” and “Jumanji.” Woodruff co‑founded Amalgamated Dynamics Inc. (ADI) with longtime friend Alec Gillis, earning an Academy Award for “Death Becomes Her.” Now based again in Williamsport, he continues to expand ADI’s creative legacy. The marketing and communications department teased campus with Hollywood-like movie posters and a video to promote the arrival of the reimagined mascot, keeping details of its appearance hidden. When it finally came time to unveil the highly anticipated mascot, a campus launch party was held in conjunction with Homecoming & Inauguration Weekend on Oct. 2, 2025. The crowd cheered as Lycos took center court in Lamade Gymnasium, joining the cheerleaders for a rousing chant. Attendees volunteered to compete in a wolf howling contest, tricycle jousting, and Lycoming trivia, and everyone enjoyed a carnival-inspired lunch from the stands. So just who is Lycos? The identity of the senior student mascot will be revealed during Commencement on May 10, 2026! Lycoming is honored to have such a work of art in its possession, and Woodruff is grateful for the opportunity to engage with his alma mater in a meaningful way — breathing new life into the mascot and the spirit behind it. Go behind the scenes as he shares how his love for creature design — and for Lycoming — helped shape the expressive new face of Lycos. WATCH THE VIDEO www.lycoming.edu/lycosmascot 17 www.lycoming.edu
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