Marquette University Seal
The university seal is reserved for use on approved official and presidential documents and events. For approval to use the seal or obtain an original digital file of the seal, complete this form.
Structure and design
The Marquette University seal reflects Marquette’s history, tradition and Catholic, Jesuit mission, and honors the role of the Indigenous nations that guided Father Marquette on his journey.
The outer ring
The outer ring features the name of the university, its founding year (1881) and the Jesuit motto, Ad majorem Dei gloriam, “For the greater glory of God.” In this way, the outer circle frames the seal with who we are, how long Marquette University has existed and the university’s purpose.
Interior, upper half
Honoring Marquette’s Catholic, Jesuit tradition and values
Ignatian symbol
The upper left sector features diagonal bands to honor the seven heroic brothers from the maternal side of St. Ignatius of Loyola's (1491-1556) family.
Insignia of the Society of Jesus
The upper right sector houses the monogram of the Society of Jesus, a Christogram that forms an abbreviation for the name of Jesus Christ in Greek — a longstanding symbol for the Jesuits. In the monogram, a cross rises from the H; below it, three nails symbolize the Crucifixion. Surrounding the monogram is a sunburst. The placement on the upper right side symbolizes a rising sun.
Interior, lower half
The lower half acknowledges Marquette’s location among the lands and waterways of the area’s Indigenous nations. The landscape depicted in this space is devoted to symbols that reflect and honor the ongoing presence and spirit of these Indigenous nations.
Water
The three rivers represent the Milwaukee, Menomonee and Kinnickinnic rivers and recognize the significance of water to our location and history. The water and lands more largely connected Indigenous guides to the university’s namesake, Rev. Jacques Marquette, S.J. (1637–1675).
Wild Rice
The representation of wild rice recognizes the sustaining food source that once abundantly grew in the flourishing waters and was mindfully harvested by Indigenous peoples. The three stalks of wild rice emerging from the waters are a potent reminder of the historic presence of Potawatomi, Menominee and Ho-Chunk nations in the area, who, along with other tribal nations, vibrantly reside in the area.
View our current Annual Report which highlights the work we do to boost the academic reputation of Marquette and tells the Marquette story. Also view our accessible version of the 2019 Annual Report.