Freedom Program

Unable to survive unaided because of an injury to his beak as a newborn, Freedom landed at Georgia Southern in 2004 and now lives at the University’s Center for Wildlife Education in Statesboro alongside other fowl and animals housed there.

As a Georgia Southern ambassador and symbol of our nation, Freedom has inspired many at the Wildlife Center, football games, the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Savannah, commencements, community events, and more.

To support Freedom and the Wildlife Center, we have collaborated to launch a new line of merchandise featuring Freedom.  

Steve Hein, Freedom’s handler said, “Freedom belongs to Georgia Southern students, faculty, the Statesboro community, and all those he encounters. It’s natural to want to express a unique relationship spanning 20 years and what better way to do this than by making his image available for people to wear and promote. I’m excited about this program, honored to be his plus-one, and greatly appreciate everyone’s support for Freedom, his care, and his future.”

The Freedom merchandise is designed to be inspiring, and stylish, representing the Georgia Southern spirit that uplifts our community.

Proceeds benefit the Wildlife Center and Freedom’s care. Our locations in Statesboro and Savannah have merchandise in-house and we have a curated collection available online.