Inaugural Traditions

The Presidential Medallion

A new tradition began during the 10th Inauguration ceremony as President Leo I. Higdon, Jr. was presented a bronze Presidential Medallion, a symbol of the authority being entrusted to him as the College´s new leader. Barbara Shattuck Kohn, chair of the Board of Trustees and a 1972 graduate of the College, presented it to him.

Featuring the Connecticut College seal, the Presidential Medallion was designed to be worn on ceremonial occasions as part of the President´s regalia. It was created for Higdon´s inauguration and is the gift of trustee Linda J. Lear, a 1962 graduate of the College.

The medallion will be part of the installation ceremony at future inaugurations. The chair of the Board of Trustees will present an incoming president with the medallion as a symbol of the authority being entrusted to the new leader.

The College Mace

The College mace is carried by the College Marshal on official occasions as a symbol of authority. The Connecticut College mace was a gift to the College from The Century Council, one of the College's giving societies, when Claire L. Gaudiani '66 began her presidency in 1988. Designed and fabricated by Richard Scheller '73, it contains brass sleeves with the names of the former College presidents.

A mace was originally a weapon consisting of a staff with a ball of steel or brass at one end. The word "mace" comes from the Latin mateola, meaning mallet. The mace evolved from an instrument of battle to a symbol of authority. In London's House of Commons, the sergeant-at-arms carries a mace over his right shoulder. When he puts the mace down, the session may officially begin. The session comes to an end when the sergeant-at-arms picks up the mace.

International Flags

The Higdon inaugural procession included current and emeriti faculty and trustees, the College's past presidents, student leaders and state and local dignitaries, and a display of more than 40 international flags reflecting the citizenship of the College's student body.

Last Modified: Thursday, April 10, 2008 17:00