Traditions

The Mace

The mace carried by the macebearer in the academic processional symbolizes authority. The macebearer carries a mace created and crafted by alumnus Michael V. Jaszczak, ’98. Jaszczak created the mace based upon the input of a committee charged with the task of bringing forth a new design utilizing the resources and wealth of talent available in Kent State’s School of Art.

The central motif of the university seal retains the sun of the state seal, signifying state ownership, and is symbolic of the light of knowledge and wisdom. The shield suggests the geographic shape of Ohio. The bird, which symbolizes leadership, is the chimney swift, a species that colonizes on campus and seems to be in constant flight. The university colors of blue and gold are incorporated in the enameled piece, which is set on top of a walnut pole. The mace rests in a walnut stand crafted by David Dalton, Ph.D., who taught for many years in the College of Education, Health and Human Services.

The Gonfalons

Gonfalons are long ceremonial flags or banners suspended from a crossbar. The use of ceremonial banners dates back to the 1500s. Italian towns, for example, each have a gonfalon, which is the official emblem of the town, showing its coat of arms.

Each of the college gonfalons is emblazoned with the Kent State seal on an academic color of one of the college’s disciplines, established by academic protocol.

The President’s Medallion

The president’s medallion symbolizes the responsibility in the Office of the President. Its central motif is the university seal, which retains the sun of the state seal, signifying state ownership, and is symbolic of the light of knowledge and wisdom. The shield suggests the geographic shape of Ohio. The bird, which symbolizes leadership, is the chimney swift.