In 1967 the Student Council sponsored a contest to name a school mascot. Students submitted a variety of ideas from which the faculty chose five finalists. The student body then voted on the nominations, and the Griffin secured the majority of the ballots. This mythical creature, half bird - half animal, is usually represented as having the head, beak, and wings of an eagle with the body and legs of a lion. The Griffin symbolizes vigilance, swiftness, loyalty, and strength. It chiefly functions as protector of man, and the earth's treasures, as well as a guardian of the dead. In the Christian tradition, the Griffin suggests Christ's two-fold nature. The eagle portion represents His divinity, and the lion portion denotes His humanity.

 In 2025, nearly six decades after the Griffin was first chosen as our school’s symbol, our faculty, students, staff, alumni, and community members united in a spirited effort to “SAVE THE GRIFFIN.” This heartfelt campaign raised the funds needed to purchase a brand-new mascot costume, ensuring that the proud spirit and legacy of our beloved Griffin continues to thrive. Representing vigilance, loyalty, and strength, our reimagined Griffin mascot will make its debut in the 2025–2026 school year…ready to energize crowds, rally school pride, and stand as a living symbol of our rich Donovan Catholic tradition.