Minerva: UAlbany’s Enduring Symbol

Since the University at Albany's beginnings as the New York State Normal College, Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, has been the institution's enduring symbol. The figure of Minerva and the Latin motto, Sapientia et sua et docendi causa ("Wisdom both for its own sake and for the sake of teaching") have appeared on the University seal since 1913.

The statue of Minerva currently on display in the University's Science Library dates back to 1888. It has survived numerous moves as the University expanded from a small teachers college to a university center, most notably a devastating fire in 1906.

Today, Minerva, wearing her distinctive helmet, continues to symbolize the University's proud past and long-standing reputation for educational excellence.

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