MANSFIELD, PA— Each graduate receiving their diploma at Mansfield University Commencement on Saturday, December 13, 1 p.m. in Decker Gymnasium, will also be a member of the first class to receive a Mansfield University Graduation Coin.
Presented by the Student Government Association (SGA), the new coin was inspired by the President’s Coin for Excellence, which MU President Fran Hendricks ’79 commissioned and began presenting selectively to persons who have contributed greatly to the university, using the creed as a guideline, earlier this semester.
The Mansfield University Graduation Coin was designed by Graphic Arts alumnus Yukta Sagar ’14.
The front of the coin features North Hall, one of the first campus buildings and an enduring symbol of Mansfield University. The red and black rolling hills are Mansfield University school colors and symbols of the region. The 15 red and black circles represent our diversity and the community of students, faculty, staff and alumni who make Mansfield a special place, as well as the original 15 alumni from the first graduating class.
The back of the coin features the Creed and the names the University has held since its founding in 1857. The diamond in the center echoes the four tenets of the Creed; Character, Scholarship, Service and Culture. The attached tassel is a recognition of graduates of the institution. The rope surrounding the creed is a symbol of the bonds that students, faculty and staff build at Mansfield University and extend beyond graduation.
SGA will sponsor a coin for each graduate. Also, four faculty and staff members, representing the four tenets of the Creed, will receive the current year’s coin for their service to MU students beginning with Saturday’s ceremony.
Graduates and Alumni can also purchase additional coins for this year, or their year of graduation through the Mountie Den beginning in 2015. All proceeds go directly to the H2S No-Interest Loan fund for MU students.