Dr. Richard D. Bergen, the Kansas artist who designed the bronze bulldog that stands guard at the entrance of Drake Stadium, died Wednesday, April 22, at the age of 95. 

According to his obituary, Bergen and son Rich partnered for over 35 years in the Bergen’s Sculpture Studio where together they crafted more than 40 monumental bronze sculptures and other works of public art found in cities across the Midwest.

The 750-pound bronze bulldog, which stands 3 feet high and stretches 5 feet long, is courtesy of a gifts by Andy and Elaine Hanna Wright, a pair 1969 Drake graduates, as well as support from gifts from the Class of 1997. The Wrights’ son, James Wright and his wife, Bethany (Hornblad) Wright, both graduated from Drake in 1997. Andy Wright, of Barrington Hills, Ill., is a member of the Drake Board of Trustees.

The bronze bulldog has become a symbol of pride on Drake’s campus and a worthy selfie-spot during Drake Relays and athletic events.