Faces of Impact
Aaron Aryanpur BA'00


“It’s been so exciting to see how the love for Temoc has grown over the years. Our campus and the community get excited to have Temoc at their events, and he adds school spirit to everything he’s a part of."

— Briana Lemos, UT Dallas Director of Student Development

Through the creation the UTD mascot, this alumnus encapsulated the campus’ unique personality for generations to come.

As a student at UT Dallas, comedian Aaron Aryanpur BA’00 created the first iteration of Temoc, the University’s beloved mascot, in 1998.

OG Temoc

Aaron Aryanpur’s original drawing of Temoc

Although Temoc has evolved since Aryanpur’s initial drawing, the mascot’s signature fiery orange mane and light blue complexion have stayed true to the alumnus’ vision. First given the name “Blaze” by Aryanpur, the mascot’s new name was derived from the University’s longstanding relationship with space: it’s “Comet” spelled backward.

Now a stand-up comedian, Aryanpur was the 2012 recipient of the Funniest Comic in Texas award and has continued to make a name for himself in comedy clubs, theaters, festivals and corporate boardrooms throughout the United States. 

The modern-day Temoc, who was originally created by Aryanpur