The Distinguished University Professor is invested in a ceremony attended by colleagues, present and former students, members of the Board of Trustees, university administrators and special guests.

As a symbol of the honor, the Distinguished University Professor is presented with a stole, designed to be worn with academic regalia. Of maroon satin embroidered with gold thread, the stole features the Elon University seal and clusters of oak leaves and acorns, a symbolic rendition of Elon’s acorn-to-oak philosophy of nurture and flourishing growth.

The stole was created with the assistance of Anne Simpkins, associate professor of art, and Carolyn Nelson, university director of design.