Coat of Arms

The granting of Coats of Arms by the Governor General of Canada is an honour from the Canadian Crown. The Coat of Arms presented to the University incorporates a number of symbolic traditions linking the University to the heritage property it now occupies and to the history of the Province of British Columbia.

Of particular interest is the motto of the University, "Living our Learning", which captures the spirit and enthusiasm of this institution. Translated into West Coast Salish, it recognizes the proud traditions of those who have come before us.

Here's a brief explanation of the symbolism of RRU's Coat of Arms:

• The three maple leaves represent Canada
• The three founding peoples of Canada
• Three philosophical underpinnings of Royal Roads University (sustainability, Leadership, and Learning)
• The former Royal Roads Military College's motto, "Truth, Duty, and Valour", and
• The three branches of the military recognizing the proud tradition of academic excellence and leadership of the former military college
• The castle turret represents Hatley Castle and the legacy of the Dunsmuirs, who built it; and
• The book represents lifelong learning

In the shield:

• The sun represents the BC flag symbol
• The stone represents Hatley Castle
• The cougar represents this indigenous Vancouver Island animal
• The dragon represents Synqua, the West Coast Salish creature of thunder, strength, and power
• The crown and anchor represent Royal Roads, the navy's anchorage off the Esquimalt Lagoon; and
• The wavy blue line represents the Pacific Ocean