Symbols of Office
Originally derived from the ancient Roman fasces, which were bundled rods of birch tied by a red cloth and encircling a single-headed axe, the mace re-emerged in the 12th century as a weapon carried by the bodyguards of kings and Popes. Once it became a symbol of authority, many institutions adopted it, including the newly created universities of Europe where it became the symbol of their authority to grant degrees. Because the Mace is so symbolized, it is often carried in academic processions immediately before the president.
The Aquinas College ceremonial mace is in the form of a torch, which stands for the Word of God, the Truth of Christ preached by St. Dominic and the Order of Preachers—the basis of the presidential authority which the mace represents.
The Medallion
The Presidential Medallion is engraved with the Seal of Aquinas College. It is affixed to all official documents issued by the College. The Seal incorporates the College’s Coat of Arms and the motto “Veritas et Caritas,” summarizing the College’s mission to teach Truth in Charity.
The coat of arms serves as a symbol of the Dominican heritage of Aquinas College. The cross incorporates the fleur-de-lis which represents the Triune God. The torch stands for the Truth of Christ preached by St. Dominic and the Order of Preachers, which he founded and to which the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation belong. The torch is superimposed on the cross and is also the emblem of St. Thomas Aquinas, for whom the College is named. St. Thomas Aquinas was a scholar, a Doctor of the Church and a great saint.
The field of black and white forms the background of the college shield. White symbolizes that purity which liberates the human heart to love God and man. Black represents the cappa of the Dominican habit which denotes a spirit of penance and emptying of self in order to serve God and others.
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Biography of Sister Mary Sarah »
Presidents of Aquinas College »
Symbols of Office »
Academic Regalia »
Did you know?
A native of Kansas City, Mo., Sister Mary Sarah entered the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation in 1988.
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