Ephrata High School unveils new mascot, honors Tiger logo creator

EPHRATA — Ephrata High School introduced its new official Tiger mascot, “Archer,” during the school's 2026 Homecoming celebration, honoring longtime educator, coach and artist Gary Archer, who created the district's Tiger logo.

The surprise debut came during Friday's homecoming festivities as the new mascot led the procession in the school's Tiger Truck, followed by Archer, a 1965 Ephrata High School graduate who later spent 32 years teaching and coaching basketball in the district, according to a district news release.

The mascot is modeled directly after the district's copyrighted Tiger logo, commonly known as the Archer Tiger. The Associated Student Body selected the name “Archer” in recognition of the lasting impact Archer has had on the school and community.

“He just was a great teacher,” Ephrata High School Principal Ashlie Miller said. “He's the one who actually created the Archer Tiger. He designed it, and so that was part of it.”

Miller said Archer's contributions extend beyond the logo itself. He is a member of multiple athletic halls of fame and dedicated decades of service to Ephrata students.

The mascot rollout was largely kept secret until its unveiling at the football game.

“The mascot rollout was really a surprise,” Miller said. “They kept it secret from everyone.”

According to Miller, the effort grew out of the district's branding initiative, which has worked to create a consistent visual identity across schools and facilities using the Archer Tiger logo.

School officials said the mascot celebrates both the district's official brand and the legacy of one of its most distinguished alumni.

Miller said mascots serve an important role in strengthening school pride and bringing people together.

“It's just something that people recognize and they identify with,” she said. “I think that in Ephrata in particular is so strong in the community.”

She said community support for local schools is visible throughout the city, from business displays to school-themed landmarks.

“It's not just the school here in Ephrata,” Miller said. “It's the entire community that unites around our stuff.”

When asked what the new mascot represents, Miller offered a simple answer.

“Loyalty and dedication to community,” she said. 

    Ephrata High School unveiled its new mascot at the Ephrata High School homecoming game. The mascot, “Archer,” is named after teacher and coach Gary Archer who helped design the district’s logo.