Making Mizzou’s Mace
Inauguration and anniversary introduce a new tradition
At many universities, an academic mace plays a role in the institution's traditions. Made of wood, metal and gems and modeled after war clubs carried in medieval times, early ceremonial maces were carried by royal body guards in England at the time of Richard I. An academic mace symbolizes the authority invested in the chancellor by the school’s governing body.
During its first 175 years, the University of Missouri had no mace. In 2014, to celebrate Mizzou's 175th birthday and the inauguration of our new chancellor, Mizzou staff and students constructed a ceremonial mace. Mizzou's mace was built with a beam taken from Switzler Hall, Mizzou's oldest academic building, and a replica of Jesse Dome, made with a 3-D printer in the College of Engineering. Unveiled at Chancellor R. Bowen Loftin’s inauguration, the mace will be used at future commencement ceremonies and other occasions.
Related Stories
News Release
MU disciplines 20 for COVID policy violations; includes 5 suspensions
News Release
Capping a campaign
University of Missouri supporters celebrated the successful conclusion of the "Mizzou: Our Time to Lead" campaign and its record-breaking $1.41 billion total.
Research
Improving workflow in an intensive care unit
An engineering professor is investigating ways to help nurses spend more time with critically ill patients.
Campus
UM Board of Curators approves the naming of the Michael A. Middleton Center for Race, Citizenship, and Justice
The center, rooted in interdisciplinary research, will promote diverse research and engagement in critical conversations about race, citizenship and justice.
Subscribe to
Show Me Mizzou
Stay up-to-date on all things Mizzou when you subscribe to the Show Me Mizzou newsletter. Issues will arrive in your inbox every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.