The Meaning of Our Crest
Sword and Shield
The sword symbolizes power, courage, and the ability to act, while the shield represents defense, safety, and the ability to withstand adversity. Together, they can also symbolize a leader's role in balancing the needs of their team and the goals of the organization.
Wreath Around the Shield
A wreath, especially a laurel wreath, surrounding a shield typically symbolizes victory, triumph, and honor. In ancient times, laurel wreaths were awarded to military leaders and other notable figures for their achievements. The shield itself symbolizes protection and defense, and the wreath adds a layer of meaning related to success and accomplishment.
The Uplifted Hands
Uplifting or raising hands symbolize prayer, praise, worship, surrender, offering, or even celebration. It is also a gesture of agreement or sustaining. The uplifted hand to God also symbolizes our faith and spirituality.
The Owl
In Western culture and throughout history, the owl is widely recognized as a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, vigilance, intuition, and change. The Owl encourages us as leaders to broaden our horizons and to utilize our knowledge and wisdom to pursue change.
The Open Hand
An open hand symbolizes openness, receptiveness, and generosity, both in literal and figurative senses. It can represent willingness to give, receive, and be open to new experiences. The open hand is also associated with peace, reassurance, and freedom from holding onto anything.
The Balance Scales
Symbolize Integrity, justice, impartiality, truth, and fairness. As an organization pursuing change, we will seek to apply a fair and balanced structure in which these elements will always outweigh any and all resistance.