 |
 |
| |
 |
|
By Buffy Smith JSU News Bureau JACKSONVILLE, Al. — January 6, 2000 — At his inaugural ceremony, JSU President Bill Meehan will be presented with one of the most significant symbols of the University -- the Presidential Medallion. A special medallion is custom made for each of JSU's presidents. The Emblem and Badge company, based in Providence, Rhode Island, is currently creating the brass emblem of office. The front of each medallion has borne the crest of the University. The crest of JSU was created in the 1930s at the request of President Clarence W. Daugette, president from 1899 to 1942. The crest was designed by artist Grace Stevenson McAbee, and her original drawing is on display in the Alumni House. The crest exhibits the Lamp of Knowledge above Seven Strands of Rope, surmounting a shield-encased Griffin, emblazoned with a combination of laurel and oak leaves, under which is a Latin inscription "EXEGI MONUMENTUM AERE PERENNIUS," which means "I have reared a monument more enduring than Bronze." The Lamp is emblematic of knowledge and learning. The Rope of Seven Strands is symbolic of the ancient mystic numeral and represents seven spheres of learning. The upper portion of the Griffin within the shield is that of the Eagle Owl adopted by the University as its first school mascot, signifying wisdom and lofty ideals. The lower portion is that of a Lion, denoting strength and courage. It is bordered with the signs of Trinity. The rampant position of the Griffin depicts its readiness of fight for the ideals represented. The scrollwork of the laurel and oak leaves symbolize sturdiness and solidity. The three-inch medallion created for Dr. Meehan is custom-cast and finished in brass. A brass jump ring holds a red and white ribbon. The backside of the medallion has of six lines of engraving: "William Arthur Meehan, Ed.D. Eleventh President. Jacksonville State University. July 1, 1999. Investiture, February 7, 2000." The medallion will be presented to Dr. Meehan at the investiture ceremony on February 7, 10:30 a.m., at Pete Mathews Coliseum. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
| © Copyright 2000: Jacksonville State University | Pagemaster | ||||