University Shield

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About the Cover Photo
Rev. Charles L. O'Donnell, C.S.C., President of the University from 1928 to 1934, commissioned M. Pierre de Chaignon la Rose, a leading authority on heraldry in the early 20th century, to create the University's shield, which he finished in 1931. The Cross represents the Congregation of Holy Cross, whose members founded and still administers the University. The open book is emblematic of an institution of learning, and the star represents Our Lady. The wavy lines at the bottom represent the two lakes on campus, which inspired the University's founding name, Notre Dame du Lac. The phrase Vita Dulcedo, Spes, taken from the ancient prayer to the Virgin Mary, the "Salve Regina," means "our life, our sweetness, our hope."