The Red & White

Everywhere you look on the SG campus, animal friends are running around and enjoying everything the Hilltop has to offer. They bring so much life and happiness to the community, whether they’re playing, exploring, or just being their adorable selves. Every single one of these SG pets is amazing in their own way, and it’s hard not to smile when you see them. For this edition, we’re taking a closer look at three of these animals to share their stories and show why they’ve become such a fun part of life here on the Hilltop.

Starting with one many know, but for those who don’t, meet Nico. Partner in crime to Ms. Golding, he loves life. When it is his day for dorm duty, he is beyond thrilled. Roaming the halls for leftover snacks and seeing the kids makes his day. Another side to Nico besides his charm for people is his love for sports that he shares with Ms. Golding. Kicking the soccer ball with her is one of his favorite hobbies that he could do endlessly. He loves the tennis courts and, obviously, all the amazing tennis balls that it has to offer. Really, anything that involves the outdoors is up his alley; he loves nature and strolling whenever he can. One final attribute that concludes who Nico is can be summed up in one word: food! If there is food, no matter what size or flavor, he will be there to clean it up for you. Beware, if food is near, Nico isn’t far. On his birthday, the guy loves buttered steak and sweet potatoes with peas on the side. For dessert, any remnant of ice cream left in the container is all his! This gentleman named Nico is one to remember, and hopefully next time you see him, say hello!

Next up, meet Suki, the lively and lovable Lab Retriever mix who’s quickly stolen everyone’s hearts on campus. At just one year old, this sweet pup from South Carolina has quickly made herself at home since joining the Hart-Loi family on September 12, 2025. Whether she’s curling up for a cozy snuggle session on the couch or eagerly sniffing out the campus bunnies during her walks, Suki’s curiosity shines through continuously. She adores splashing through the waves at the beach and gets extra excited during dorm duty at Arden and cross-country practice, where she makes new friends in every corner of campus she goes. And if that wasn’t enough, after every walk, she stands alert by the Diman door, hoping to catch someone who’ll give her a little extra loving affection. It’s clear that Suki has certainly found her home very quickly here on the hilltop. 

Last but certainly not least, meet Jack O’Lantern, a very friendly, very social cat who’s quickly become a beloved member of the Manor community. Adopted by the MacMullen’s from the Potter League in Middletown back in 2023, Jack’s charm is undeniable, even if Ms. MacMullen admits some bias! Since moving to SG, Jack spends much of his time peacefully napping in his cozy window hammock, which offers a perfect view of Second Beach. Known for being quite vocal, he also loves playtime, especially with toys covered with fur or feathers. This summer, Jack’s outdoor adventures stepped up a notch with the addition of a catio (cat patio) on the porch, now his favorite new hangout spot. Ms. MacMullen even hopes to bring him to class someday, just like some faculty bring their dogs. With many charming qualities, Jack is another wonderful example of the furry friends who make campus life so special.

All in all, Nico, Suki, and Jack show just how much the Hilltop is full of life, not just from the students and teachers, but from the pets too. They make our days brighter, keep us smiling, and bring a little extra fun to campus life. Whether it’s Nico chasing tennis balls, Suki making new friends on her walks, or Jack hanging out in his hammock, each of them is part of what makes SG feel like home. Next time you see them or any SG pet, say hi!