Millsaps Ring

Office of Alumni Relations

A Tradition that Lasts for Generations

Millsaps Ring Millsaps is an institution steeped in tradition. A walk through the campus pays tribute to its impressive past; a visit to any classroom shows a commitment to a promising future.

There is an intangible link between past, present and future. It is the very core of tradition. Millsaps' unique characteristics are passed on with each graduating class - like a ring that comes full circle. That symbol, the Millsaps ring, captures the essence of the Millsaps experience and allows graduates to show their pride in joining a very special group known as Millsaps alumni.

Custom crafted for Millsaps, the ring carries symbols and features chosen especially for the College. At a glance, this classically styled ring distinguishes Millsaps alumni from all others and serves as a lasting symbol of its Alma Mater.

The symbol for the central portion of the ring is the Millsaps crest. The design consists of a shield incorporating the cross, three stars and stripes. The banner at the top and bottom of the crest heralds Millsaps' name, founding year and motto. The three stars represent the three founders of Millsaps: Major Reuben W. Millsaps, Bishop Charles Betts Galloway and William Belton Murrah. Credit goes to Mrs. Magnolia Coullet, professor emeriti of Latin, for the motto Ad Excellentiam, which is rendered "in pursuit of excellence." This motto represents the legacy of hard work and high academic standards to which Millsaps strives.

The designs on either side of the ring have been selected as enduring symbols for both current students and alumni. The "M logo," showing an oak leaf superimposed over the letter M, represents the College's namesake, Major Millsaps. The oak leaf was and still is the official insignia for the rank of major in the U.S. Army. This logo, used extensively by the College's athletic teams and student organizations, symbolizes students' pride in and spirit for Millsaps.

The other side of the ring depicts the Millsaps Tower, built in 1987 as a dedication to the College's three founders. It is a distinctive landmark for the campus and the surrounding community, with its bell chiming every hour on the hour and its 122-foot copper-clad tower visible for miles in each direction. The structure recognizes those whose generosity has helped sustain the College since its founding in 1890. On the side of the tower beneath bronze plaques depicting founders Millsaps, Galloway, and Murrah are inscribed the names of Founders Society members, donors, whose gifts to the College total $1 million or more. As a physical marker of the College itself and a symbol of the philanthropy that enables Millsaps to continue to challenge, care for, and improve people's lives, the Millsaps Tower unifies students past, present, and future.

The Millsaps ring symbolizes the pride of a prestigious academic institution and represents a common bond shared by its alumni.

If you are interested in purchasing a Millsaps Ring, contact Balfour at (601) 362-6990.

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