Rector of Queen's University at Kingston

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.

Kingston, Ontario
Grant of a Badge of Office
October 15, 2004
Vol. IV, p. 406

Badge of office of the Rector of Queen's University at Kingston
Badge of office of the Rector of Queen's University at Kingston
 
Badge of office of the Rector of Queen's University at Kingston

Badge of office of the Rector of Queen's University at Kingston

Blazon

On a hurt a demi puma issuant from an ancient crown and holding in the dexter paw a balance Or, all encircled by a belt Gules fimbriated, buckled, its tip adorned with a maple leaf and inscribed PRINCEPS SERVUSQUE ES, meaning "Be a leader and a servant", in letters Or;

Symbolism

The three colours are those of Queen's University. The puma is the symbol of the Office of the Rector, a tradition started by Rector Michael Kealy in 2000. The crown appears in the border of the arms of Queen's University as a reference to its name. The balance is a symbol of justice and equity and thus represents the Rector's role in acting as an ombudsperson for students. The strap and buckle design is characteristic of Scottish heraldry and thus refers to the fact that the position of Rector is based on a similar post in the four ancient Scottish universities. The maple leaf is a mark of Canadian identity.

Motto

Blazon

PRINCEPS SERVUSQUE ES;

Symbolism

Meaning "Be a leader and a servant" and was inspired by Queen's Principal George Monro Grant, who said: "If you can become at once the servant and the leader of [others], then you will show what Queen's has done for you." The Latin translation of the motto is based on a suggestion by Sean M. Rodgers, Artsci '04.
 

Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the letters patent was made on June 11, 2005 in Volume 139, page 2034 of the Canada Gazette.

Letters patent granting heraldic emblems to the Rector of Queen's University at Kingston

Additional Information

Creator(s)

Original concept of John Matheson and Gordon Macpherson, Niagara Herald Extraordinary, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority

Painter

Gordon Macpherson

Calligrapher

Heather Taylor

Recipient Type

Civil Institution
University Faculty, Department & College