ATHENS, OH (WCMH) — Rufus the mascot for Ohio University will be participating in the Columbus Pride parade this Saturday.

Ohio University made the announcement today.

delfin bautista, director of the University’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Center, said Rufus will represent the University’s commitment to diversity.

“Ohio University a place that celebrates people of all genders, orientations, and expressions of identity. We are proud to support our siblings in Columbus as they celebrate PRIDE in Columbus and its impact on the community as it has transformed since it first began 1981,” said bautista.

According to the release, Ohio University was selected as one of the 100 best LGBT Friendly Colleges and Universities by The Advocates’s College Guide for LGBT Students.

Earlier in the week, the Ohio State University announced Brutus the Buckeye wasn’t going to march in the parade due to security concerns, but on Thursday the university announced it had re-evaluated the situation and he will be in the parade after all.What others are clicking on: