Official University Mace

The University Mace

A new tradition was born at Iowa State in the creation of a presidential mace to be carried at commencement ceremonies. The bronze, silver and tiger maple mace brings new life to traditions and images of Iowa State.

“The first challenge that was given to me was to create something that would be meaningful to everyone at Iowa State, said sculptor and medallic artist Jeanne Stevens-Sollman. "The one thing that kept coming back was the Campanile. The other element of campus that seemed to be important was the reflecting pool with the Christian Petersen sculpture around it. I took some artistic license and moved the clock up into the tower, which became the place where the presidential seal could be… and added the disc which to me became the reflecting pool even though they’re not adjacent to each other.”

Like the ancient Roman standard-bearer, a mace leads a ceremony with tradition and grandeur. Dating back to ancient Egypt, the first maces were weapons. The mace began to evolve from a weapon to an ornamental symbol of power when it was carried by the royal sergeants-at-arms and stamped with the royal arms. As time passed, the mace began to be carried at academic processional and recession during commencement, inaugural, and at other key ceremonies. The mace symbolizes the academic authority of Iowa State University and is a common symbol among colleges and universities.

"The mace signifies the dignity and special nature of the commencement ceremony," said ISU President Gregory L. Geoffroy. "Commencement is a very special time in the life of an individual, a transition point when they leave behind the life of a student and enter their chosen professions."

For more information on the University Mace see the article in the Fall 2004 issue of VISIONS.

Mace Facts
Total height: 5 feet
Weight: 14 pounds
Created of bronze, silver, and tiger maple
Number of bands encircling the staff: 14 (for the number of ISU presidents)
Artist: Jeanne Stevens-Sollman, Bellefonte, Pa.
Cost: $12,500
Funded by: The ISU Alumni Association’s Circle of former presidents, chairs and executive directors; the Stanton Carillon Foundation; and University Museums
First used: Spring commencement ceremonies, May 7-8, 2004
First carried by: Richard Horton, ISU professor of electrical and computer engineering and chief faculty marshal for the commencement ceremonies
Currently housed: Iowa State University Alumni Center