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THE COAT OF ARMS OF
ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY
In 1997, we were honoured to be granted a coat of arms by the Governor General of Canada.
The coat of arms presented to Royal Roads University incorporates symbols of the traditions
that link the university to our past and to the province of British Columbia: the sun from the
Province’s Arms; the three maple leaves from the crest of the former Royal Roads Military
College and all they represented, as well as symbolizing the underpinnings of our university
(sustainability, leadership and learning); and the book of learning as a reference to the
voyage of academic discovery. The shield is supported by a cougar, indigenous to Vancouver
Island, and Synqua, a dragon representing the Coast Salish creature of thunder, strength
and power. The crown and the anchor held by the supports represent Royal Roads, the
navy’s anchorage off the Esquimalt Lagoon.
The motto of the university – “Living Our Learning” – captures the spirit and enthusiasm
of our institution. Translated into Coast Salish, the motto recognizes the proud traditions of
those who have come before us.