Union has always been an institution steeped in rich tradition, and the Garnet Chargers name only strengthens our connection to Schenectady’s history and the community. The Garnet Chargers name - our name - is something to be unequivocally proud of and I know it will serve as a source of inspiration and inclusivity as we move toward an even brighter tomorrow for the entire Union community.”
– Pete Haviland-Eduah ’10, Alumni-elected Trustee and former Union student-athlete (football)

I am in huge support of the Garnet Chargers! I think that this is a great way to incorporate the community we reside in and include the history of the school.”
– Sage Stinson, Class of 2025

The Garnet Chargers is an exciting representation of a 21st century Union College, moving forward and pushing ourselves to continuously strive to be better, as well as reminding us about our history as a liberal arts and engineering school. We have so much history, and this nickname is a reflection of where we have come from, and where we will be headed.”
– Daniel Wilcox ’22

Union Swimming and Diving is so excited to step into the 2023-24 Season as the Garnet Chargers! Our staff uses language as a tool to create and support our identity. The name Garnet Chargers unites Union Athletics, making us stronger and helping us take steps forward!"
– Molly Chamberlain, head men’s and women’s swimming & diving coach

Schenectady is known as the Electric City and Union College has enjoyed a productive relationship with GE since the late 1800s.” The change to 'Chargers' creates a 'buzz' and appropriately captures this longstanding relationship. Chargers also connotes moving forward and making progress. It is inherently positive and aligns well with Union’s mission to prepare its students for an ever-changing world.”
– Mario DiLoreto ’91

As a hockey team, we were looking for a name that matches the energy and passion we are striving to achieve on the ice every day. The Garnet Chargers name connects us to the city of Schenectady as well as embodies many of the core values of our program. While change may not always be easy, we are excited for the future of both our program and the College as we move forward as Garnet Chargers.”
– Josh Hauge, head men’s hockey coach

I am extremely proud to be a part of representing the Garnet Chargers. This nickname truly speaks to the community’s drive and passion to make an impact. Union is a community that does not balk at adversity and instead embraces it and pushes through. I know every student-athlete will bring the energy and drive to seamlessly integrate the nickname into our programs.”
– Maren Friday, Class of 2025 and women’s hockey player

"I am extremely proud to be a part of representing the Garnet Chargers. This nickname truly speaks to the community’s drive and passion to make an impact. Union is a community that does not balk at adversity and instead embraces it and pushes through. I know every student-athlete will bring the energy and drive to seamlessly integrate the nickname into our programs."

– Maren Friday, Class of 2025 and women's hockey player