As Principal, I am proud that South combines the best of the University's traditions with all the advantages of modernity. Our college crest and motto advertise that combination. The motto is the Latin "Libertas, Aequalitas, Civitas Totius Mundi', in English "Freedom, Equality and Global Citizenship". Freedom describes South College's dedication to freedom of thought, speech, and debate. Equality stresses our commitment to inclusion and diversity. Global citizenship emphasises our ambition to welcome students and staff from all over the world and concern for the future of our planet.
Like the crest that accompanies it, the College motto was designed in partnership with South College's first students, the South College Pioneer Scholars who joined us from other Durham University Colleges and helped build our warm, welcoming, and inspiring new community. Both crest and motto have been embraced with great enthusiasm by South College's first undergraduate freshers and postgraduate students. They are now recognised across Durham as proud symbols of our community and our principles.
Our crest includes the Torch of Liberty, St Cuthbert's Cross and an owl. The torch lights the way to freedom and enlightenment. It represents our support for the free exchange of ideas and individual liberty. St Cuthbert is the North of England's best-loved saint. His cross is a widely admired symbol of Durham University. It expresses South College's pride in the historic University and county of which it is part. Owls live in the woods near college. They represent wisdom. The the owl in our logo also represents a popular and distinctive College mascot.
Oswald, the carved wooden owl plays a central role in the college matriculation ceremony, at formal dinners, and at college balls. He is also represented on the college lectern.
South College's wonderful new buildings and grounds at Mount Oswald came to life as soon as our first new students arrived in September 2020. Already, our community is alive with fun, creativity, and debate. South College is an inspiring home in which to live and learn. Our students are proud to call themselves Southies and to promote our college and its values.
My colleagues and I look forward to welcoming our second intake of new students in September 2021. Our motto and crest are proudly displayed at entrances to the College and on the wall of the Pitcairn Building, home to our cafe/bar, student common rooms and my office. Students display them on sweatshirts, T-shirts, and hoodies. Our student leaders will be waiting to welcome new Southies to their college. They will make you feel at home and introduce you to Oswald and the traditions he represents.
Professor Tim Luckhurst MA, FRSA Principal South College
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