NORFOLK, Va. — The absence of Old Dominion University’s (ODU) historic seal from Kaufman Mall has sparked speculation across social media, with rumors circulating that the emblem had been stolen. However, university officials have confirmed that the seal is safe and has been temporarily removed for maintenance.

The rumors began earlier this week when students and faculty noticed that the seal—an iconic symbol of ODU’s heritage—was missing from its usual location. Posts on various social media platforms suggested the possibility of theft, with some students questioning whether it was part of a prank.

ODU took swift action to address the speculation through an official Facebook statement. “There is a rumor on social media that our beloved Old Dominion University ‘seal’ on Kaufman Mall has been stolen. We want to assure you the seal is safe. It is just undergoing maintenance,” the post read. “Don’t worry, Monarchs, it will be back in place shortly, for you all NOT to cross until Commencement day.” This clear and direct communication from the university helped dispel the rumors and reassure the ODU community.

The ODU seal holds historical and symbolic significance. According to the university’s website, the design incorporates Virginia’s colonial history elements and ODU’s parent institution, The College of William & Mary. The central shield, divided by a St. George’s cross, reflects the royal arms of the Stuart monarchy, which ruled England when Virginia was known as the Old Dominion. The seal also features the coat of arms of William & Mary, recognizing ODU’s origins as an extension of the historic college. Encircling the shield is the university’s name and its founding year, 1930.

Beyond its historical importance, the seal is central to a well-known campus tradition: superstition holds that stepping on the seal before graduation brings terrible luck, potentially delaying a student’s ability to graduate on time. This belief has led students to avoid stepping on it carefully—except during Commencement when crossing, it is seen as a rite of passage.

Senior Sports Managment major Ndure Benka-Coker expressed relief upon learning that the seal had not been stolen but admitted that the change was still noticeable. “A lot of us came in as freshmen, took tours, and were told that we would walk across that original seal when we graduate,” Ndure said. “Seeing it removed felt like it took away part of that experience we had envisioned. Many of us are taking our senior photos, and the new seal just doesn’t give off the same impression as the older one. It’s not a huge change, but it’s still not the same.”

The university has since confirmed that the seal has been successfully restored to its original location on Kaufman Mall, ensuring that ODU’s long-standing tradition remains intact. This fixing is not just a physical act, but a reaffirmation of the university’s commitment to its history and the community it serves. Students can now walk around the seal once more, keeping the superstition until Commencement Day.

Students can check ODU’s official page and Facebook page for updates.