history of convocation In the Middle Ages, the church was responsible for higher education. Monasteries were the centres of learning and monks were the scholars of society. By the 12th Century, secular scholars began forming communities to pursue knowledge and truth, which eventually developed into independent universities in the prominent cathedral cities of Europe, precursors of today’s universities. As universities grew, scholars wanted to honour students who successfully completed their education as well as welcome them into the select and exclusive group of scholars. The word convocation originally referred
to gatherings of the clergy of Canterbury and York, but in 1577 Oxford University used it to describe the assembly of its graduates. Ever since, students around the world have been admitted to the order of scholars in a convocation ceremony. Since its first convocation ceremony in 1968, the University of Lethbridge has been proud to recognize the academic achievements of our students, and honour individual achievements in various fields. A convocation ceremony represents a celebratory ‘rite of passage’ for our students — an opportunity to share academic accomplishments with their mentors, fellow graduates and loved ones. The ceremony begins with the national anthem and reflection. Following that the main features of convocation are a speech to the graduands by the president, a speech by the honorary degree recipient or guest speaker, and the conferral of degrees, diplomas and certificates by the chancellor.
THE UNIVERSITY SYMBOLS The University’s colours are blue and gold, drawing inspiration from the blue sky and bright sun so prominent on the southern Alberta landscape. The University Shield brings focus to the fiery sun with twisted Aztec rays. The University of Lethbridge Coat of Arms was unveiled during the University’s 45th anniversary celebrations at Fall 2012 Convocation and features the blue shield and the University’s signature sun, along with our motto, Fiat Lux. This is supported by other components such as the eagle feather, Alberta wild rose, pronghorn and miner’s lamp; all signature elements of the University.
Fiat Lux, our motto, is Latin for ‘let there be light’ and refers metaphorically to the illumination that comes from research and learning. At the University, everyone has the ability to shine and we believe it’s our job to help make that happen. The mace, carried in the academic procession by the chief marshal, was created by artist Corne Martens and given to the University in memory of former senator Virginia Mitchell. Dedicated at the fall convocation ceremony on October 1, 1988, the mace is cast in bronze and represents the institution’s authority to grant degrees, diplomas and certificates. Unique to the University of Lethbridge, one end features three elements: mortarboard, gavel and open book, symbolizing academia, the Board of Governors and the General Faculties Council. The other end features a globe surrounded by pronghorns, representing our mascot and the universality of knowledge.
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