The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Edmonton, Alberta
Confirmation of Arms, Supporters, Flag and Badge
May 20, 2010
Vol. V, p. 516
Arms of Grant MacEwan UniversityBlazonAzure on a rose Argent a plate fimbriated Azure; SymbolismBlue and white are the academic colours of the University. The rose refers to the wild rose, the provincial floral emblem. The circle is a symbol of the never-ending process of learning, as well as of inclusiveness. As a circle, it also relates to the earliest inhabitants of the area and as a component of the medicine wheel, a First Nations symbol. |
CrestBlazonA sparrow wings elevated and addorsed perched on a walking-staff fesswise proper; SymbolismThe sparrow was an important bird for Dr. J.W. Grant MacEwan (1902-2000), the University’s namesake and a former Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. It is mentioned in his personal creed, written in 1969. Its outstretched wings indicate aspiration and striving. The walking stick is something Dr. MacEwan carved and is now used as the University mace. |
MottoBlazonDISCENDO FLOREMUS; SymbolismThe Latin sentence means “Through learning we flourish”. |
SupportersBlazonTwo griffins per fess Azure and Argent beaked and membered Argent standing on a compartment of prairie grass set with wild roses proper; SymbolismThe griffin is the symbol of the University’s sports teams (the MacEwan Griffins), symbolizing courage, swiftness and excellence. The prairie grass and wild roses indicate Alberta. |
Flag of Grant MacEwan UniversityBlazonA banner of the Arms; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
Badge of Grant MacEwan UniversityBlazonOn a plate fimbriated Azure, a griffin’s head erased Azure; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on March 26, 2011 in Volume 145, page 1074 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Saint-Laurent Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterGordon Macpherson CalligrapherDoris Wionzek Recipient TypeCivil Institution
Other InformationThe recipient's emblems were originally recorded in the name of Grant MacEwan College in the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada, Volume V, p. 268, 20 March 2008. |