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.
Ottawa, Ontario
Confirmation of Arms, Supporters and Badge
May 15, 2015
Vol. VI, p. 503
Arms of Universities CanadaBlazonArgent four pairs of maple seeds in saltire Vert; SymbolismThe central symbol is an adaptation of the emblems that have been used by the organization over the past few decades. Originally a way of indicating the letters AUCC – for the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, the original name of Universities Canada – the green shapes also resemble maple seeds, and thus refer to the maple leaf symbol of Canada and to the work of the Association and its member institutions in fostering intellectual growth in Canada. The use of the green colour reinforces the idea of growth. |
CrestBlazonOn two closed books Vert, an open book proper bound and charged on the dexter page with a maple leaf Vert; SymbolismThe books refer not only to education in general, but also to the information-sharing work of the Universities Canada. The three of them are meant to indicate the three mandates of the organization in education, research, and service to the community. The maple leaf is the national symbol of Canada. |
MottoBlazonVOX ERUDITIONIS; SymbolismThis Latin phrase means “A voice for higher learning”. |
SupportersBlazonTwo polar bears each holding a feather Argent penned Vert and resting a hind paw on an Ionic capital Argent, all set on a quadrangle Vert; SymbolismThe polar bears are a particularly Canadian version of an animal that has long been used in heraldry and which is found in the mythology of many cultures. In different parts of the world the bear is symbolic of strength, bravery, wisdom, and protection of the young. It has also been associated with rites of passage and with ideas of new life. Mediæval bestiaries theorized that an adult bear could physically shape its young, an idea which can be used as a metaphor for education. The feather held by the bear represents not only the responsibilities of Universities Canada in research and information-sharing, but it can also allude to the use of an eagle feather by First Nations cultures as a symbol of authority and dialogue within an assembly. By extension, this can refer to the idea that Universities Canada is a “meeting place” for its member institutions, where concerns and information are shared. The Ionic capitals represent the classical origins of university education. The grassy compartment has been shown in a square form to indicate a quadrangle, a feature of many university campuses in Canada. |
Badge of Universities CanadaBlazonFour pairs of maple seeds in saltire Vert; 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 October 3, 2015 in Volume 149, page 2337 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Deputy Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterEva Pilar-Cass CalligrapherNancy Ellis Recipient TypeCivil Institution
Other InformationThe recipient’s emblems were originally recorded in the name of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada in the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada, Vol. IV, page 376, 10 May 2004. |