This custom-made academic mace first made its appearance in 2009. Each piece is representative of a different components of K-State. #KStateGraduation - The diamond at the top of the mace points to the future. - The three wooden rings beneath the diamond represent the three things that students leaving the university take with them: knowledge, understanding and the skill gained through the educational process. - The ball, which is symbolic of #KState staff and faculty, also features the official seal. - All of the rings encircle the mace and signify that #KState is a student-centered institution.