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The crest of Villanova
University is an adaptation of the historic seal of the Order of St.
Augustine. Its design reflects the Catholic heritage of Villanova
University, founded by the Friars of Saint Augustine, and dedicated to St.
Thomas of Villanova, under the patronage of Our Mother of Good Counsel. The
crest displays seven elements with
historical significance.
The University
Presidential seal is a full color version that includes the incorporated
fide of the University in Latin.
The motto of the University is 'Veritas,
Unitas, Caritas' or truth, unity, and charity. These are the
special virtues to which the University aspires and seeks to inculcate
through every endeavor.
The book is symbolic of Augustine's
dedication to learning, and the Book of Scriptures through which Augustine
began his conversion to Christianity. In Confessions, written by
Augustine himself, he recounts hearing a voice which instructed him to take
up and read, 'Tolle lege, tolle lege". At this invitation, he took up
the Book, opened to the Epistle of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 13, and
began his search for self-knowledge through a relationship with Christ.
The cincture which rests on the book, is
an element of the habit worn by the Order of Saint Augustine, and is
symbolic of the common trials shared by Mary, the Mother of God; Monica, the
mother of Augustine and Augustine himself.
The flaming heart symbolizes both
Augustine’s fervent search to know God and love of neighbor which so
characterized the life of Saint Augustine.
The crosier or staff is symbolic of
Saint Augustine's leadership in the Church as Bishop of Hippo.
The crosses above and behind the Book
are symbolic of Augustine's conversion and commitment to Christianity.
The laurel wreath which frames the
central elements is symbolic of the victory to be gained through the pursuit
of knowledge in the context of shared community.
The incorporated fide of the University
appears in Latin along the outer border, of the official University
Presidential seal - 'Villanova University in the State of Pennsylvania.'
The institution was
established in 1842.
The official school colors are navy blue and white.
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