“From our hills of oak and cedar to the Alamo,” are the opening words to our alma mater. They are strewn in ribbon across San Antonio’s most prominent fixture, the Alamo. The words represent the magnitude of our great university—oak and cedar growing prevalent at the northwest campus and the Alamo representative of downtown. Images of oak and cedar branches solidify the connection.

The contemporary architecture of the Sombrilla is a dominant northwest campus feature. It is where students congregate and friendships are made. Rowdy, the UTSA roadrunner mascot, is boldly portrayed signifying the spirit and tradition of the UTSA. Images of native plant life are ingrained: bluebonnets, the state flower of Texas, wildflowers, and cacti, representative of the Southwest.

At a glance, the university seal atop this classically styled ring distinguishes a UTSA graduate from all others. The seal reflects the history and prestige of the university and the solemnity of the successful fulfillment of its high academic standards. The seal holds a shield for protection. Within the shield lays an open book to signify higher learning, and a star and wreath, which are originally from the “Great Seal of the State of Texas.” The star represents the Republic of Texas and the wreath depicts an olive branch, which represents peace. The motto “Disciplina Praesidium Civitatis,” is the Latin translation of a saying taken from the Republic of Texas President, Mirabeau B. Lamar, “A cultivated mind is the guardian genius of democracy.”