The Inauguration of Michael T. Benson - September 21, 2007

Graphics Explanation

THE FUTURE IS RISING

The Southern Utah University coat of arms (see description of the seal, below) is often used to represent the Office of the President, and so it was a natural source to look at for imagery to represent the inauguration of SUU’s 15th president, Michael T. Benson. The design of the inaugural mark is derived from an enlargement of a portion of the SUU coat of arms, specifically, the upraised left wing of the thunderbird crest. The image of a wing poised for flight is particularly well suited for opening the tenure of President Benson. From his first day on the job, he has fostered an attitude of upward progress, both in academic excellence and institutional growth. On the campus, a new education building is rising next to Old Main, the original school building. Out in the world, the reputation of SUU is taking flight as our graduates showcase the private school education they received at a public school price. The inaugural mark and theme were created to embody these concepts and represent President Benson’s vision for Southern Utah University.

The Seal

Created by John Ferguson, one of the foremost heraldic artists in the world, the official seal of SUU incorporates a traditional coat of arms in compliance with the ancient rules of heraldry.
The center shield, underneath the helmet, is partitioned into four quarters—each with a different symbolic design.

In the upper left quarter is the bristlecone pine, the oldest living tree on earth, species of which can be found on the mountains above Cedar City. The bristlecone represents the endurance of truth and knowledge, as well as the hardy endurance and continued growth of SUU through many challenging years.

In the upper right quarter are three sheaves of wheat (called “garbs” in heraldry). Wheat, as the ancient staff of life, is used in heraldry to signify that which nourishes life, and in SUU’s coat of arms it also symbolizes the agricultural ties of the early institution.

Education is represented in the two bottom quarters of the shield. The feather pens symbolize the creation and dissemination of knowledge, and a book represents the preservation of knowledge. The three feathers also depict the three major stages of the university: as a branch of the University of Utah (1897-1913), as a branch of Utah State University (1913-1953), and as a fully independent institution (since 1953).

On top of the helmet is the crest, which on the SUU coat of arms is the school mascot, the Thunderbird, rendered in traditional heraldic style, with wings upraised.

The text on the mantling at the bottom of the coat of arms reads “Learning Lives Forever,” which has long been the official motto of the University.

The use of the seal is reserved for commencement materials, official documents such as diplomas, and also activities and communication from the president’s office. All other uses must be approved by the director of Marketing and Public Relations in the president’s office.

For more information: contact burt@suu.edu or call 435-586-1997 to acquire news releases about Inauguration week.