Penn College News

Mascots mingle as they welcome Chick-fil-A

Thursday, July 31, 2025

photos by Rob Hinkal, social media specialist

Three mascots: A wildcat giving a high five, a holstein cow holding a sign that says "Eat Mor Chikin," and a flurry blue character in a red buffalo-plaid shirt, pose together.

The Wildcat, along with the Chick-fil-A Cow and the Williamsport Crosscutters' Boomer, is among VIP guests at the ribbon-cutting for Chick-fil-A, just across the street from the college.

Williamsport’s first Chick-fil-A opened to the public Thursday!

Before the crowds rushed in, Penn College’s Wildcat was invited to rub elbows with the restaurant chain’s own mascot – the Cow. Joining the fun was the Williamsport Crosscutters’ beloved Boomer – plus lots of dignitaries who gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday.

Also joining the Penn College neighborhood this year is a Wawa convenience store and gas station – another Williamsport first – which opened in January. Both Chick-fil-A and Wawa are on Maynard Street, directly across from the college’s main entrance.

Recreational developments are also on their way: A 1.46-mile extension to the Susquehanna River Walk will run adjacent to the campus and allow easier access, and the Williamsport Lumber Yards, a baseball and softball complex just steps from campus, is set to open in early 2026.

People, including three in mascot costumes, stand behind a ribbon at the entrance of a Chick-fil-A restaurant. One person is holding a giant pair of scissors up to the ribbon.

Wildcat and other dignitaries gather for the restaurant's ribbon cutting.