The ceremonial necklace of the Aalto University President

 

The Helsinki School of Economics, the University of Art and Design Helsinki and the Helsinki University of Technology merged to form the Aalto University at the beginning of January 2010. The official symbols of the university president, the necklace, were conferred on President Tuula Teeri at the opening ceremony for the new university at Finlandia Hall on 8 January 2010.

These symbols represent many centuries of tradition. Originally, such ceremonial necklaces were used to symbolise the power of rulers. Since the Middle Ages, they have been used also by the leaders of the academic world. The university president uses these ceremonial emblems of her authority at festive academic occasions such as university opening ceremonies, degree conferrals and other events where she is present in her official role.

 

The designer of the ceremonial necklace was chosen in a competition organised by the University of Art and Design Helsinki. The necklace is designed by Saara Renvall. Her work represents a bold and inventive rethink of the tradition of these university symbols.

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Photos Lasse Lecklin

Gown by Inni Pärnänen

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