Recently, the Eileen G. Jones Honors College has gained a new addition to its crew. His name is Tortellini, and he is a ten-year-old red-footed tortoise. He is an omnivore that loves to eat vegetables and worms. He also really likes zucchini. He is almost around his maximum size and will grow no more than a few inches. Tortellini is friendly, loves scratches on his chin, and loves getting sprayed with water. 

Where and when can you find him? 

Tortellini is currently located in the Fishbowl of Eileen G. Jones Honors College, but the college is working on expanding his home so he can live there every day. The students have constructed his home using plywood and soon they will be asking students to help paint the wood. Once the house is done, there will be a sign-up for students to volunteer and take care of Tortellini, but before they can, they will be required to take a quick class to watch over him safely.  

Why now? 

Tortellini was donated to the college by a girl who could not take care of him while away at college. The Honors College decided to take in Tortellini as their mascot. The main reason why we have a mascot is so the Honors College can work together to take care of him. As Dr. Doerschler says, “This is something everyone could be a part of.” It is a rare opportunity where any honors student, regardless of their major, can take part in taking care of Tortellini. 

What are the benefits? 

For honors students who sign up to take care of Tortellini, they can get service hours to fulfill their requirements. Also, if a student regularly takes care of him, they may use it for their minor impact experience. If a student is worried about taking care of Tortellini, just know that there already have been students taking care of him. One of those students, Ashlynn Kujipers, had been watching over Tortellini for a period over the summer and she happily recommended others to sign up for this new experience.