UNIVERSITY MACE

The mace is a club-shaped staff used as a symbol of authority. It was originally a weapon of the Middle Ages with a long handle, heavily weighted on the end. The heavy end became an iron ball as the sciences of war developed, and archers and other unmounted warriors used the mace as a hand arm. The mace was also used as a symbol of authority by some church officials, the British House of Commons, and the United States House of Representatives. Sergeants at arms, who were the guards of kings and other high officials, also carried maces. Even today, a gleaming white mace still rests on the table at meetings in many nations, symbolizing royal and legislative authority. Gradually, the mace gained a ceremonial character and today it is used during inaugurations, commencements and other formal processions. The Kentucky State University Mace is carried in by the Faculty Senate President.

Since modern academic regalia evolved from the kinds of apparel worn by monks and students in the Middle Ages to keep warm in the castles and halls in which they studied, academic regalia remains symbolic of scholastic achievement. The regalia worn by Kentucky State University's president, is made of black tropical wool. It has green velvet panels and bars. The bars and panels are accented by antique gold cordings. Each sleeve has four chevrons. The sleeves are Akron style inlaid with Washington green. The hood is flat with a square bottom. It is embellished with Washington green satin lining and antique gold chiffon. It also has gold cording with green velvet.

Each president of Kentucky State University wears the Chain of Office, also referred to as the livery and/or the presidential medallion, symbolizing the Office of the President. It is worn at formal academic occasions such as inaugurations, commencements, convocations, and Founder's Day. Kentucky State University's Chain of Office comprises a 3" diameter bronze medal with green enamel set in a tulip bezel. It is attached with a leaf banner bearing the title president and leaf clusters. The chain consists of curved banners depicting engravings of the names of all the official presidents of Kentucky State University and their years of service.