Powell Cat commemorated with UCLA alumnus-made statue
Former UCLA student Max Loy with the new Powell Cat statue in Kerckhoff Hall
A new statue built by former UCLA student Max Loy honors the late Powell Cat, the student body’s unofficial campus pet, and is now on display in Kerckhoff Hall for all to enjoy.
Los Angeles, Calif., Sept. 17, 2025 – The UCLA community is paying homage to a cherished campus figure, Powell Cat, with the installation of a memorial statue at Kerckhoff Hall titled, “The Powell Cat Statue.” The piece, the development of which spanned 2023-2025, honors the beloved Powell Cat that passed away in 2023, sparking reflection and appreciation for the unofficial campus feline that frequented Powell Library and Kaufman Hall.
The bronze-cast statue, hand-sculpted by UCLA alumnus Max Loy, an anonymous artist and artist Tim Doyle, was brought to life through two years of dedicated planning, as well as successful fundraising efforts featuring Loy’s handmade embroidered sweatshirts. The statue now stands in the heart of the Associated Students UCLA (ASUCLA) Student Union as a testament to the creativity, resilience and collective spirit of the UCLA community, and has been fully produced by UCLA students and funded by students and staff as a community.
“Public art on campus has a unique power to bring people together,” said Pamela Lewis, Student Union services director. “This statue creates a new space for reflection, connection and community at Kerckhoff Hall, and I’m excited to see how future generations of Bruins will make the artwork part of their own UCLA experience.”
The statue features a patina and craftsmanship reminiscent of UCLA’s iconic Bruin Bear statue at Bruin Plaza. It’s placement in the heart of the ASUCLA Student Union was brought to fruition by former USAC Internal Vice President Josh Garland, as he coordinated efforts between the artist and ASUCLA. Though it honors the beloved Powell Cat, the statue is more than a memorial, symbolizing the enduring, unconditional support of UCLA volunteers and wildlife rescue teams, who for decades have protected and uplifted their Bruin community.
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About ASUCLA:
Founded in 1919, Associated Students UCLA (ASUCLA) is a nonprofit association that drives vitally essential student services and activities throughout the UCLA campus. ASUCLA boasts the largest college store in the U.S., an extensive food program, UCLA® brand licensing programming through UCLA Trademarks & Licensing, and other services and programs that include student government and student media, which significantly enhances the quality of UCLA’s campus life. For more information and to stay connected, follow @asucla on Instagram or visit asucla.ucla.edu.