- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Thompson Rivers University
Kamloops, British Columbia
Grant of Arms, Supporters, Flag and Badge
April 1, 2005
Vol. IV, p. 451
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Azure a sun in splendour encircled by an annulus wavy Argent;
Crest
A demi bear Azure winged Argent issuant from a coronet set with fish embowed respectant Argent;
Supporters
Two horses Argent each gorged with a wreath of sage proper pendent therefrom a hurt charged with an open book Argent, standing on a mound of earth set with mountains and sage bushes proper;
Motto
T7ETSXEMÍNTE RE STSELXMÉM;
Flag
A banner of the Arms;
Badge
A sun in splendour Argent charged with a bear’s head Azure;
Symbolism
Arms
The blue field refers to the brilliant skies, lakes and rivers that envelop the region where Thompson Rivers University is located. The wavy circle around the sun represents the sacred circle of life, a central tenet in First Nations belief systems. It also stands for the never-ending character of learning. Lastly, the wavy feature of the circle recalls that the university is located near a junction of several water sources vital to the First Nations of the region. The sun is a symbol of light and learning, a principal endeavour behind academic institutions.
Crest
The coronet honours the indigenous peoples of the region by acknowledging the important role of fish as a food source and for recreational purposes in both their community and the community at large. The black bear, frequently seen on campus, represents strength, power and determination, qualities seen as vital to the success of Thompson Rivers University. Represented as a mythic creature, the winged bear allows for a further connection to the presence of migratory birds, thus suggesting perpetual striving for excellence across all faculties and programmes.
Supporters
The mare and stallion symbolize grace, power and endurance which characterize the institution’s approach to learning and growth. They also refer to the major role horses played in the farming and ranching activities associated with this region both in the past and present. Their collars of sage are a reference to the distinctive local landscape. The medallions hanging from the collars feature open books and echo the motif of the active pursuit of knowledge. The mare and stallion stand on a representation of the local natural environment surrounding the university.
Motto
Meaning “To strive ahead” in Shuswap, this sentence indicates that the journey of learning is enduring and unremitting.
Flag
The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.
Badge
The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on June 11, 2005, in Volume 139, page 2035 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority
Painter
Linda Nicholson
Calligrapher
Shirley Mangione
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
University