Who named MSU Spartans?

Michigan State University, once known as Michigan Agricultural College—and later Michigan State College—had long carried the nickname “Aggies,” reflecting its agricultural roots. As the institution expanded and placed greater emphasis on collegiate athletics, there was a push for a more fitting moniker. The Lansing State Journal’s sports editor, George S. Alderton, organized a naming contest, which briefly produced the awkward “Staters.” That choice didn’t resonate. Enter Stephen George Scofes, a beloved local restauranteur who ran The Famous Grill in Lansing. He submitted the name “Spartans,” drawing inspiration from his family’s origin near Sparta, Greece. Alderton initially misspelled it in print (“Sportans”), but Scofes corrected him—and soon “Spartans” caught on and stuck, becoming the enduring identity of MSU’s teams. billdutton.me+5billdutton.me+5billdutton.me+5

Scofes’ connection to MSU went beyond naming its mascot. Through his friendship with coaches and sportswriters—often fostered at his restaurant—he remained tied to the university. His legacy continues through a family-sponsored award: the George Stephen Scoes Outstanding Faculty Award, presented annually to an MSU academic who supports athletes—a tradition that had seen twelve recipients by 2017.

The full article is below:

https://billdutton.me/2017/12/26/who-named-msu-spartans-stephen-george-scofes/