In an effort to increase representation and inclusion, Brigham Young University invites students to meet Cosma, a female version of the beloved mascot with a strong- but meek- message of female empowerment. 

“Her talents, homemaking, virtue, meekness, and power to bear symbolize BYU standards,” explained Ed Bennett, BYU’s Director of Marketing and known male. “No, like Cosmo, she won’t speak- that’d be absurd. But she is intended to be a true mouthpiece for women on campus.”

The Cosma initiative was introduced on social media the morning of International Women’s Day. And despite the campaign’s intentions described by Bennett, Cosma and her mascot appearance drew unanticipated responses for the BYU Marketing Department. 

“I just wanted free tampons and to not worry about sexual assault,” said a female student on Instagram.

“Wait, what’s going on? If this is some pro-celibacy message, it’s the best one BYU has ever done,” said Twitter user and student Mason Reed. “She is pure nightmare fuel and I don’t think I’ll ever look at a girl the same way again.”

The post attempted to clarify the purpose of Comsa, announcing she’ll make plenty of appearances with Cosmo at his booked events, bring refreshments, and maybe even bring forth a cub or two in the foreseeable future. As always, BYU knows women. You go #girlboss!