The motif dominates Wright Auditorium and continues in the striking entrance to the new General Classroom Building . The concept can also be seen throughout the campus in doorway and window treatments. The logo is not a picture of a particular arch. Rather it is stylized to capture the University's contemporary and historic elements in order to suggest a timeless quality and the distinctive character of East Carolina University. Arches have been used in architecture for centuries to symbolize buildings of prominence, stature, and dignity.
Arches also suggest doorways or entryways.
For East Carolina University, the arch suggests not only the academic stature and strength of the University but also the doorway to education that East Carolina has been and will continue to be for future generations of students. The official East Carolina seal is a six-cornered shield encased in a circular border containing the name, location, and founding date of the University. It appears on the diploma. The shield represents the shield of trust , as was used in the Crusades. The motto servire , meaning to serve , is emblazoned on the scroll.