MANSFIELD, PA— Representative Matt Baker has been awarded 
the first Mansfield University Presidential Coin for Excellence. MU President Fran Hendricks made the presentation during an informal ceremony on Thursday, October 23 at the Rotary Club meeting in Wellsboro.
The coin was developed by Hendricks and designed by MU Publications Director Andy Worthington.
The coin bears several symbols representing historical highlights and other aspects of the university that make it distinctive.
The front side of the coin shows a football and bursts of light in commemoration of the world’s first night football game played by Mansfield in 1892; the flame of knowledge; 15 rays of light symbolizing number of members of the first graduating class, 12 women and three men in 1866; a book with an inkwell and G Clef, a reference that Mansfield Classical Seminary was the first institution to accredit music teachers; and the words, “Semper Honorus,” which is Latin for Always with Honor.
The back side of the coin lists the various names the university has had, including, Mansfield Normal School, Mansfield Classical Seminary, Mansfield State Teachers College, Mansfield State College and Mansfield University. It bears the university creed of “Character, Scholarship, Culture, Service.” North Hall, the university’s oldest and most distinguished building, is also prominently displayed.
The rope cut around the edge symbolizes that which binds our present to our past, symbolizes the close-knit of our community and provides the means to capture our future.
Hendricks said the coin will be awarded selectively to persons who have contributed greatly to the university, using the creed as a guideline.
“I thought long and hard about who the first recipient should be,” Hendricks said. “And it was clear that Matt Baker deserved the honor. He has been an unwavering supporter of Mansfield University and he embodies everything that is great about our region. He is the epitome of excellence in action. Being the first recipient, he sets the bar high for those who will join him in this special recognition.”
“He also serves on the state’s Board of Governors which oversees all the State System institutions,’ Hendricks added. “Matt has always been there for MU; as a legislator, a friend and a visionary”
Baker is serving his 11th term in the 68th district of the House of Representatives, representing all of Tioga County and Western Bradford County.
For more information on the Mansfield University Presidential Coin for Excellence, go to president.mansfield.edu/coin-for-excellence/