(Valparaiso, IN) - Valparaiso University students and staff will no longer identify as Crusaders. The school has dropped its traditional nickname for a more progressive moniker.

Previously known as the Crusaders, the Valpo faithful will now cheer on the Beacons.

School officials decided in February to ditch the old name. One reason is the connection that the "Crusaders" moniker and symbolism have with the Ku Klux Klan. According to University President Jose Padilla, the nickname Beacon reflects the school’s motto and Christian roots: “In Thy Light We See Light.”

The private Lutheran school will phase in the new Beacons name and logo throughout this school year.