PASSAGE OF THE FOUNDERS, CENTRAL CAMPUS, FEBRUARY 2014
To think about the nature and destiny of our University takes us back in time through an artistic expression full of symbolism. This walk starts with the history, the philosophy, and the Mission into the daily work that characterizes our institution.
AS A FIRST ACT WE BEHOLD THE PREPARATION OF THE SOIL
This part of the mural is a depiction of the University's genesis, those moments of change, and disruption as a consequence of the struggle, efforts, and sacrifices that made the Spirit of the Foundation possible. The first scene encompasses the basis, principles, and grounds of the University's Mission written 40 years ago. >
The words that read in Spanish "LA CULTURA AL SERVICIO DEL PUEBLO" mean the culture in the service of people, the motto with which our University was born, and what defines our Mission. Above the motto, there is a graphical expression of the 25th anniversary, showing a human face profile side by side with the shape of an eagle’s head, representing the student with the eagle spirit rising to the highest, and below angels are guarding the way. >
The next two phrases defining our nature are "IDENTIDAD CATÓLICA" for Catholic identity, and "FE Y RAZÓN" for faith and reason. These concepts lead us to put forward our catholic roots within the classrooms by joining together faith and reason. The encounter of the good, the truth, and the beauty expressed in the words "BIEN," "VERDAD" and "BELLEZA," are the goal of every human thought, illuminated by the light of an eternal flame. >
The mural's first scene ends with the word "CONQUISTA" which means conquest, as a reminder of the struggle for university autonomy that inspired our founders, who showed the desire to persuade the community to choose a work of transcendence in favor of comprehensive and scientific education. In the lower part, agitated waves are undulated as a depiction of a period of struggle and profound transformations.
IN A SECOND ACT WE CONTEMPLATE THE SOW OF THE SEEDS
This section of the mural depicts the present time of university life, in which students experience evolution through the education they receive and the values they acquire, leading them into the future of their self-fulfillment. They are gathered together and are a vibrant, dynamic, and transforming community. >
It begins with our “SHIELD” between the words "CULTURE" and "SCIENCE," followed by the coat of arms of Mexico, a national symbol depicted in our flag, which identifies us as Mexicans. >
Under the modern logotype and in the middle of the “PROTECTIVE SHELL” of our Alma Mater, there are "HUMAN SHAPES," whose features become more defined as they are molded by the university environment, progressing in their education until a cultivated, capable and responsible person emerges. Our Mission is "TO CREATE STREAMS OF THOUGHT AND TO FORM LEADERS WILLING TO TRANSFORM SOCIETY” sets the primary objective of our educational proposal. The human shapes are on the "STERN OF A BOAT," taking them to a safe port in their professional life. >
There is a "FORGED CROSS" depicted as well, the symbol of our efforts involved in our studies, which is the award granted to the students with the highest academic performance. >
The central section of the mural ends with an image of the "VIRGIN OF GUADALUPE," to whom we entrust our institution. At this scene, the waves seem calmer, which symbolizes a phase of consolidation.
WE REACH THE MOMENT OF THE HARVEST
This moment is when our promises become a reality, the essence of today's strive, our efforts, and endeavors. It is a symbol of transcendence, a service to the community and the society, seeking their improvement and perfection. >
First, the word "FREEDOM" is a manifestation of self-dignity and respect for all human beings' dignity. >
"SOLIDARITY" reminds us of the social virtue that forged UPAEP, and the commitment we have to it, in giving ourselves to help solve the needs of our context, in congruence with our values. >
The phrase “DUC IN ALTUM” is presented as the aim of all professionals, encouraging them to put out into deep waters, leaving a mark in society through their thoughts and actions. The NETS illuminated by the "SUBLIME LIGHT," will provide abundant fishing to transform the society in which we live, setting the guidelines towards a true transcendental destiny. The end of the mural shows a remarkable view of the boat BOW that will take us safely through the waters of life. >
The calming waves under this last part are a symbol of the culmination of the comprehensive education of our students. >
In all these regards, we are compelled to propose a vision towards our fiftieth anniversary. >
“Culture in Service of the People” >