Old Main is the first building on the University of Wyoming campus. Erected in 1886, it predates Wyoming’s statehood by four years. As you step through its west doors, you’ll notice a beautiful stained-glass window. It has witnessed a lot since UW’s founding. At its center is a Latin phrase that carries a powerful message:
Cedant arma togae—“Let arms yield to the toga.”
This phrase comes from ancient Rome. “Arms” stand for force and conflict, while the “toga” symbolizes civil life—governance, law, education, and meaningful debate. Together, they remind us that in a healthy society, knowledge and civic duty outweigh violence.
Choosing this phrase for Wyoming’s only public university reflects the state’s values. From the start, the founders recognized that true strength requires knowledge and responsibility, along with independence.
Wyoming’s landscape shapes its culture: vast distances, neighborly ties, and a spirit of self-reliance. These elements cultivate a particular strength, one that values education as a cornerstone for community and citizenship.
Old Main’s stained glass is more than an artwork; it reinforces this mission. It shows images of agriculture and hard work—tools, not weapons. Above, the sun rises over the mountains, signifying growth and stewardship, not conquest. This window embodies Wyoming’s identity and values.
Just outside Old Main, another Latin phrase is etched into the cornerstone: Domi habuit unde discerēt. This means, “He need not go away from home to learn.” The founders made it clear: higher education is not a distant luxury but a right rooted in Wyoming. Learning should be accessible to all.
This message of local opportunity fills us with pride—a pride that still resonates today. It suggests that education and civic engagement can thrive right here in Wyoming, without needing to look elsewhere.
These two inscriptions encapsulate our identity and goals. Learning should always take precedence over force, and it must be available to our community. This commitment to education isn’t just a historical sentiment; it remains relevant as universities today face various challenges and debates.
Universities are often caught in loud discussions about their roles. Yet, at UW, the focus stays clear and tailored to our people. We prepare teachers, engineers, ranchers, and public servants. Our goal is to foster knowledge that empowers communities to make informed decisions and engage in meaningful dialogue.
This mission transcends political divides. It embodies the essence of civic responsibility—encouraging a culture where thoughtful debate is valued over shouting matches. Engaging in reasoned discussion requires more patience and courage than simple reactions.
The phrase “Cedant arma togae” reflects Wyoming’s unique blend of toughness and intelligence. It asks us to define strength as self-governance and to prefer wisdom over fear. Similarly, “Domi habuit unde discerēt” reinforces our choice to build a strong educational institution at home.
These messages, carefully embedded in UW’s foundations, serve as a reminder that the university is more than just a place of study. It belongs to all of us—students who will carry these values forward, faculty who inspire, and leaders who guide. It’s a community effort to keep the torch of knowledge alight for future generations.
As we navigate our way forward, remembering these ideals keeps us grounded. “You are here for Wyoming. Ignite the flame of knowledge for our home.” It’s a reminder of our identity and the aspirations that have defined Wyoming from the beginning.
