University of Michigan/University of Michigan-Flint Seal
THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN/UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT SEAL
The Great Seal of the University of Michigan is a direct descendent of the wax seals of old and, like them, signifies that a document is genuine. By regental bylaw (Sec. 2.11), the secretary of the University of Michigan is the official custodian of the seal and holds the authority for its use.
Adopted in 1895, the present Great Seal is the third design used by the University of Michigan. It features a sun rising behind a shield, on which appears the lamp of knowledge placed on a book. The motto “Artes Scientia Veritas” is on a ribbon. “The University of Michigan” is on the upper border, and the founding date of U-M, “1817”, is on the lower border. The University of Michigan-Flint seal replaces 1817 with the word “Flint”.
The primary purpose of the University Seal is to certify official University documents, including diplomas, certificates, and official acts by the Chancellor and Board of Regents, and to graphically symbolize official association with the University and its educational and research missions. The seal is therefore to be used sparingly and with strict adherence to the visual guidelines provided in the Graphics Toolkit. The Seal should not be modified, cut off, or combined with other forms. University departments who would like to use the Seal should email University Relations to request graphics files. Student groups are not eligible to use the Seal.