Why attend a prestigious university if no one knows it? After four years of paying top dollar tuition and struggling through rigorous courses, wouldn't you want others to recognize your accomplishment? Several of WPI's administrators, alumni, and students are increasing the recognition of graduates by designing an easily distinguished class ring. This ring should contain the symbols which represent WPI's many traditions. The "ring committee" needs your help in determining what symbols best represent WPI, and therefore should be on our ring.
Since the 1970's, each WPI junior has chosen his or her own ring design. Yet, for a long time before that, WPI had one ring design. For many years the ring was a symbol of unity and helped WPI graduates to recognize one another.
Recently, WPI established a committee to investigate the possibility of returning to a single ring design. Although still in the early stages of planning, it is clear that the new design should include many of the symbols of WPI. That's where you come in. As WPI students, we all have ideas about what symbolizes WPI, and what should go on our ring. Please email any suggestions or comments that you have to: caseyr@wpi.edu.
The changing of our ring policy brings up many questions. "What if we just bought a ring?" "When will the policy be changed?" "Will alumni be able to change their old rings for new ones?" According to Jostens, our ring company, when WPI switches to a single ring design all recently purchased class rings can be exchanged for the new ring free of charge. Yet, there will be a charge of approximately $40 for alumni to have their ring recast. As for when we'll see the new rings, the class of 1999 will most likely be the first class to wear the WPI ring.
Remember, all questions, comments, and design suggestions should be emailed to caseyr@wpi.edu. This is your school, and your ring, so take part in its design!