The Everlasting Legacy of Egerton University's Logo
By Ian Martin.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Once upon a time, in the heart of Kenya's Rift Valley, a humble agricultural college stood proudly on the land graciously donated by a nobleman with a deep commitment to education. This nobleman was none other than Lord Maurice Egerton of Tatton, the Earl of Albemarle, and a senior male relative of the 4th Baron Egerton. Little did he know that his act of generosity would lay the foundation for a renowned institution that would touch the lives of thousands for generations to come.
The year was 1939, and the Egerton Agricultural College was established with a mere three students. To symbolize the link between the college and its esteemed benefactor, the management sought and granted the right to use the Egerton family's Coat of Arms in their logo.
The old logo was a visual representation of Lord Maurice Egerton's legacy. It featured the head of a baron donned in a protective helmet with wire gauze covering the eyes, representing his chivalry and courage. Around the neck, heavy metal signified strength and resilience. Standing on the helmet, a powerful lion gripped a mighty arrow, adorned with the Latin words "Sic Donec," meaning "we serve while here in life" or "we serve while we live." Below the neck, a shield with a lion at its center and three spearheads at the corners added further symbolism of strength, leadership, and defense.
For many decades, this logo stood tall and proud as a constant reminder of the college's noble origins and the commitment to serving others through education. However, as time went on, Egerton Agricultural College evolved into Egerton University College in 1987, signifying its growth and diversification of academic disciplines.
With this transformation, the university management felt it was time for a new logo, one that would embody the spirit of modernity while preserving the legacy of its origins. The new logo, unveiled to the world with great pride, is a brilliant piece of art that beautifully captures the essence of Egerton University.
At the core of the new logo stands Mount Kenya, majestically representing the university's geographical location and its roots within the Kenyan landscape. A lion, symbolizing power, stands atop the mountain, clutching an arrow, bearing the inscription "Sic Donec" as a testament to the university's continued commitment to service and personal development.
But the symbolism does not stop there. At the bottom of the shield on both sides are maize cobs, a homage to agriculture and a reminder of the university's humble beginnings as an agricultural college. Below the maize cobs lies an open book, a timeless symbol of learning and academic excellence. To those who look closely, they will see that when the book is drawn in color, it reveals itself as a Bible with red edges, acknowledging the importance of faith and spirituality in the journey of knowledge and wisdom.
The new logo represents the seamless integration of tradition and modernity, reflecting Egerton University's strong legacy while embracing innovation and progress. It tells a story of growth, resilience, and transformation, just as the university's leadership has continued to uphold the ideals and values set forth by Lord Maurice Egerton of Tatton.
Today, under the guidance of the current university leadership, Egerton University stands as a beacon of academic brilliance and community service, nurturing minds, and empowering the next generation of leaders. The logo serves as a constant reminder to students, faculty, and staff that their journey of learning and service is intertwined with a rich history that began with a noble act of benevolence.
As the university community continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains unchanged: the Egerton University logo will forever stand as a powerful symbol of the enduring legacy of Lord Maurice Egerton and the commitment to serve while here in life.
Edited by; Kurian Musa
Communications Officer
DMRM
