The presidential medallion symbolizes the continuity of leadership at UNLV. Cast in sterling silver, it is hand-engraved with the state seal of Nevada. The names of UNLV's leaders, starting with Donald Moyer, and the years they served are carved on individual links in the chain. The president wears the medallion at commencement and other ceremonial events. The Consolidated Students of the University of Nevada (CSUN) commissioned the medallion from Huntington Jewelers in 1973 as a gift to the university.
An Arduous Process: Casting and engraving such an intricate, heavy piece was a challenge for jeweler Jack Huntington, who was known as Las Vegas' hand-engraving expert for more than 50 years. It took Huntington several days to carve the wax for the medallion's mold by hand. From that, he developed the cast into which he poured the melted silver.
Carving Out Traditions: Huntington, who learned to carve in the Boy Scouts, graduated from Bradley University's engraving school. He opened Huntington Jewelers in 1950 and taught his oldest sons to engrave. Ron Huntington engraved the most recent link in the medallion chain for President David Ashley.
Ric Huntington, BS '73 Accounting, now runs the family business. As a UNLV parent, Jack Huntington said it was a privilege to create the medallion. "This was one of my prize accomplishments," he says. "Engraving has always been something very special, and I've had the fortunate ability to create tradition."
— Erin O'Donnell
