the official hseas seal

Note from Dean Venkatesh "Venky" Narayanamurti

March 21, 2007

I am pleased to present the new seal for the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

After much thought and discussion (and countless potential designs), we decided that paying homage to our past was the most appropriate way to celebrate our present and future.

The seal is composed of three elements:

-The modern version of the Harvard "veritas" chief appears at the top.

-Directly below the chief, the horizontal chain stitch highlights the work of Gordon McKay, a manufacturer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist most well known for improving, patenting, and licensing a revolutionary machine for sewing shoes.

-In the main body of the seal is the coat of arms of the Lawrence family, honoring donor Abbott Lawrence, for whom the Lawrence Scientific School was named. The arms (called the "ragged cross") appear as they were originally rendered by designer Pierre de Chaignon la Rose in the seal for the Harvard Engineering School created in 1936. (The 1936 seal was likely never officially used or displayed.)

As always, I want to thank our entire community, alumni, and friends for all of their hard work and support during this exciting time.

Best,

Venky