Help name TU’s newest Tiger

Meet TU’s donor-supported comfort dog and help decide his name

By Pamela Gorsuch on January 30, 2024

TU's new comfort dog with his TUPD handler
Handler Jafar Taru with TU's new comfort dog. (Lauren Castellana / Towson University)

He has brown fur, a wiggly tail and no name—yet.
 
Voting opens today for the name of TU’s first-ever comfort dog, a trained companion who will serve up cuddles and connection to students, faculty and staff. Tigers can vote for one of four name options on TU’s Instagram stories today. The options reference special parts of TU’s campus or culture.
 
A unique name is fitting for this special dog. Drawing from canines’ proven ability to reduce stress and boost morale, he will offer emotional support and companionship as part of TU’s community-oriented approach to public safety. The dog lives and works alongside TUPD patrol officer Jafar Taru, offering a comforting presence at building walk-throughs and calls for service. 
 
“He’s not like traditional K-9s trained to detect substances or aid search and rescue,” says Taru. “His sole focus is to reinforce the wellbeing of our campus community.” 
 
It’s that exact community that helped bring him here. During the 2023 Big Give, more than 115 TU students, faculty, staff and alumni donated funds to provide the training, food and veterinarian care necessary to have a dedicated comfort dog on campus. Donations remain open to support the dog’s continued care and bring additional canine companions to TU.
 
In the meantime, our new furry friend will be dishing out the love through cuddles, company and a calming presence.
 
“He thrives on interaction and wants to snuggle everyone he meets,” Taru says. “I love watching the impact it has as people take a moment to forget about what’s on their mind and enjoy the simple pleasure of a loving dog.” 
 
The dog will be on campus 220 days a year beginning this month. Keep an eye out for him across campus and at special TUPD events. 

behind the OPTIONS

Help Name TU's Comfort Dog

Each of the four name options for TU’s canine comfort companion has a special connection to our campus or culture. Voting is live today on TU’s Instagram stories. Choose from the following names:

  • Ty – To recognize all the past and present Tigers who helped bring our comfort dog to campus
  • Chap – To honor TU’s inaugural Dean of Minority Affairs, Julius Chapman
  • Bruno – The name option provided by the dog’s handler, TUPD Corporal Jafar Taru
  • Goldie – To recognize our TU colors, and in remembrance of the beloved family dog of key canine comfort companion fund donor Brian DeFilippis.

Update: Bruno it is! Voting for the comfort dog’s name culminated the morning of Jan. 31 with the campus community choosing the name option provided by the dog’s handler. Thanks to all those who participated in the naming process.