New York University stands as a global leader in higher education, and its institutional identity is anchored by a powerful and enduring phrase. To understand the university is to engage with its motto, a concise expression that encapsulates a century-old commitment to intellectual rigor and global citizenship. This exploration delves into the meaning, history, and profound significance of the official NYU motto.
The Official Motto: Perstare et Praestare
The official motto of New York University is Perstare et Praestare . This Latin phrase serves as the academic and philosophical bedrock of the institution, guiding its mission and shaping the experience of its students. While often translated simply, the phrase carries a depth of meaning that speaks to the core of what it means to be part of the NYU community.
Decoding the Latin: To Persevere and to Excel
The translation of Perstare et Praestare is elegantly direct: "To Persevere and to Excel." The first word, Perstare , emphasizes resilience, determination, and the sustained effort required to overcome challenges. It is a call to maintain focus and commitment through the inevitable difficulties of academic pursuit and personal growth. The second word, Praestare , pushes beyond mere completion to achieve distinction and superiority. It encourages not just finishing the task, but excelling at it, setting a standard of brilliance in one's work and character.
A History Woven into the Institutional Fabric
The adoption of this motto reflects the ambitions of the university's founders and its evolution into a world-class institution. Established in 1831, NYU sought a phrase that would define its educational philosophy from its inception. Choosing a Latin motto connected the modern university to a long tradition of classical scholarship, while the specific words chosen signaled an aspiration for both enduring spirit and outstanding achievement. The motto is not merely decorative; it is a functional guidepost embedded in the university's identity.
Application in Academia and Campus Life
The principle of Perstare et Praestare manifests in countless ways across the NYU campus. In the lecture halls of the College of Arts and Science, students are challenged to persevere through complex theories and excel in their analytical thinking. At the Stern School of Business, future leaders are taught to persevere through market fluctuations and excel in strategic innovation. The motto provides a common language for excellence, reminding the entire community—faculty, staff, and students alike—of the standard to which they are held.
Global Impact and Modern Relevance As a university with a significant global presence, including major campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, the motto Perstare et Praestare transcends linguistic and cultural barriers. It serves as a universal touchstone for NYU's international community, uniting diverse scholars under a shared banner of resilience and achievement. In an increasingly complex world, the call to persevere amidst uncertainty and to excel in one's field is more relevant than ever, solidifying the motto's timeless value. Symbolism and Institutional Pride
As a university with a significant global presence, including major campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, the motto Perstare et Praestare transcends linguistic and cultural barriers. It serves as a universal touchstone for NYU's international community, uniting diverse scholars under a shared banner of resilience and achievement. In an increasingly complex world, the call to persevere amidst uncertainty and to excel in one's field is more relevant than ever, solidifying the motto's timeless value.
Beyond its literal translation, Perstare et Praestare embodies the spirit of New York City itself: dynamic, demanding, and relentlessly ambitious. The motto captures the energy of a student navigating the bustling streets of Greenwich Village while pursuing academic goals. It represents the university's pride in fostering individuals who not only survive but thrive, who leave their mark on the world through perseverance and excellence. This phrase is the heart of NYU's institutional pride.
