Ever wonder what it’s like to be Bucky Badger? Step inside the world of UW–Madison’s beloved mascot at Wisconsin Idea Spotlight: Becoming Bucky in Minneapolis. Kick off the evening with a spirited reception, where you can connect with fellow alumni, Badger fans, and past Buckys. Then, settle in for the featured program: a special screening of Bucky!, a PBS Wisconsin documentary that brings the mascot’s adventures, antics, and traditions to life on the big screen.
After the film, stay for a lively panel discussion featuring former Buckys Devin Deegan ’19, MS’20, Blake Johnson ’08, and Taylor Shuster ’15, who will share firsthand stories from their time in the iconic striped suit and what it’s really like to embody Bucky.
Be sure to wear your Badger Red because it will also be Day of the Badger!
This is a free event, but registration is required.
Schedule
| 5:30–6:15 p.m. | Check-in and reception with refreshments |
| 6:15–7:45 p.m. | Welcome and Bucky! screening |
| 7:45–8:15 p.m. | Panel discussion and Q & A |
About the Speakers
Devin Deegan ’19, MS’20 was a member of the Bucky Badger team from 2016 to 2019. Some of his favorite Bucky memories include roaming Times Square for the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament, sharing the stage with Mike Leckrone at his final Varsity Band Concert, and throwing down on wedding dance floors throughout Wisconsin. He currently lives in Minneapolis and works at the University of Minnesota, but rest assured, his wardrobe still maintains a strict “no maroon” policy.
Blake Johnson ’08 served as Bucky Badger from 2006 to 2008. During his time on the Bucky team, he enjoyed countless memorable game days and appearances, with highlights including developing the on-ice headstand as “Ice Bucky,” narrowly missing a national mascot championship, and building lifelong friendships with his fellow Buckys while bringing joy and excitement to fans across Wisconsin and beyond.
A native of Champlin, Minnesota, Blake now lives in the Twin Cities with his wife and their two children, a 6-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter. He has built a successful career in technology sales, and when he’s not coaching his kids’ sports teams, you can often find him on a local golf course.
Originally from Baraboo, Wisconsin, Taylor Shuster ’15 attended the UW from 2011 to 2015, majoring in kinesiology with a certificate in leadership. While in Madison, he was selected as one of the members of the Bucky team from 2013 to 2015, which ultimately turned his life upside-down. As part of the mascot “furternity,” he had the opportunity to further his love of the UW and Wisconsin pride while performing as Bucky at hundreds of events across the state and country. Notable events include the Women’s NCAA National Championship Volleyball game, Jack Links TV commercials, the Outback Bowl, Big Ten 10K, Mascot Nationals in Orlando, and countless others. After graduating from the UW, he attended physician assistant school at Marquette University in Milwaukee (still not a Golden Eagle fan), and he currently works in the ER at the University of Minnesota Medical Center. He is engaged to his fiancé, Chelsea, and hopes Bucky can make an appearance at their wedding this fall.
Parking
Guests attending events at the venue have the following parking options:
- Street Parking: Available along N Washington Avenue.
- North House Lot: A small parking lot is located behind North House, accessible via 2nd Street.
- Nordic Parking Ramp: Located at 728 3rd Street, this ramp offers additional parking capacity.
