Algonquin College will finally have a symbol to represent itself as a learning institution.
As part of the College’s 50th birthday celebration next year, a coat of arms will be created. The announcement came out on October 20.
“There’s a certain prestige that accompanies an official coat of arms,” said Dr. Samy Khalid, the Herald in charge of conceptually designing the symbol for the college.
Unlike Carleton University and the University of Ottawa, Algonquin College does not have an official coat of arms.
A coat of arms is a unique heraldic design that is often on a shield. It originated over 900 years ago in Europe and uses mascots, mottos, and characteristics to form a central element of individuality.
“It’s a very interesting way of expressing a form of identity,” said Dr. Khalid. “It’s like an artistic I.D. that distinguishes everything. All of the colours and symbols mean something.”
According to Dr. Khalid, the creation process can sometimes take over a year. He admits that the college’s shield is in the very early stages of development.
But the college isn’t wasting time and is already looking to hear from you.
“We really want to get the students involved,” said Scott Anderson, Director of Communications.
To contribute your feedback, comments can be submitted in a section on the school’s website that is devoted to the coat of arms creation.
The proposal to create the symbol was granted over the summer by the Governor Generals office. The next step in the process is to provide the Heraldry Office with information about the college like our Aboriginal roots, digital innovation, core values, diversity, and athletics.
Like many other students, Jered Harrison, a third year animation student, is unfamiliar with the historic art form of heraldry to create a coat of arms.
When asked if he were to theoretically have to design something to represent the college, Harrison envisioned incorporating the Thunder, digital and visual learning, as well as togetherness.
Anderson, co-director of celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the college, has big dreams for the symbol.
“I would personally like to see it on the wall of the LRT station at baseline,” said Anderson.
The coat of arms is currently one of the only ideas announced for the anniversary in 2017, however there will be more to be unveiled.