Harvard University

On Sept. 8, 1836, at Harvard’s Bicentennial celebration, it was announced that President Josiah Quincy had found the first rough sketch of the College arms – a shield with the Latin motto “VERITAS” (“Verity” or “Truth”) on three books AS” (“Verity” or “Truth”) on three books – while researching his History of Harvard University in the College Archives. During the Bicentennial, a white banner atop a large tent in the Yard publicly displayed this design for the first time. Until Quincy’s discovery, the hand-drawn sketch (from records of a meeting of “the Governors of Harvard Colledge” in 1643) had been filed away and forgotten. It became the basis of the seal officially adopted by the Corporation in 1843 and still informs the version used today. Today the Veritas shield (left) is a central element of the University’s graphic identity. The Veritas shield with wreath and banner (right), also known as the adorned Veritas shield, is used by the University for commemorative purposes, for other official University functions and purposes where the University is being represented as a whole. In 1753, Benjamin Franklin was granted a Master of Arts degree, which is generally considered to be the first true honorary degree awarded by Harvard. The first woman recipient was Helen Keller in 1955. Established in 1895 by the Swedish chemist and inventor of dynamite Alfred Bernhard Nobel, the Nobel Prize is an annual award acknowledging outstanding contributions to physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature, and peace. Currently, 50 Harvard faculty have been honored with this prestigious award while working at Harvard. A pioneering theoretical physicist from the dawn of the atomic age, Roy Glauber updated the theory of the nature of light from its origins in the 19th century to include modern quantum principles. He helped explain how light can travel in the form of quanta (particles) as well as rays or waves. "With the support, advice, and help of the Harvard community, my focus during this interim period will be on advancing our mission and helping to heal and strengthen a University that I cherish." Known formally as the President and Fellows of Harvard College, the Harvard Corporation is the oldest corporation in the Western Hemisphere. ...view more