Symbols

The Academic Mace

The tradition of the academic mace began in the late fourteenth century when two ancient instruments, the royal scepter and the battle mace, were combined to form a symbol of the authority of the president or rector of a university. Noblemen carried the battle mace as both a weapon and staff of command, and the sovereign used the regal scepter as a sign of rulership, justice, and authority.

Together with the chain of office, the academic mace indicates that the president of the university is the temporary embodiment of the power, authority, autonomy and sovereignty vested in the institution represented.

At the University of Mary Washington, the faculty marshal carries the academic mace on behalf of the president at public events such as commencement exercises, inaugurations, convocations, and Founders' Day.

The Mary Washington mace pictured above was designed by Asprey and Company of London, England, and was first used for the May 1970 Commencement. It showcases the seals of the State of Virginia and Mary Washington College of the University of Virginia. A new University mace has been commissioned to Suzannah Wagner of Ashland, Va.

Presidential Collar

One of UMW's newest traditions, the Presidential Collar was first worn by President William M. Anderson, Jr., at Commencement in 2006. Chains of office, also known as collars, originated in the Middle Ages and are worn today by presidents on ceremonial occasions as part of their regalia. The University of Mary Washington chain is a unique design crafted from gold-plated sterling silver with lapis luzali gem accents by jeweler Susannah Ravenswing. Symbols important to the history of the University are incorporated in every element of the chain. A large medallion depicting the school seal is flanked by white oak leaves modeled after the oak tree at Brompton, home of the president. The names of the previous six presidents of this institution alternate with its six historical names on links that are connected with dogwood blossoms, the State tree.

UMW EAGLE

The UMW eagle was adopted as the official Mary Washington mascot and approved by the Board of Visitors in September 1986.