| Wren Society | |
| Coat Of Arms: | WrenSocietyLogo.jpg |
| Birthplace: | College of William and Mary |
| Type: | Secret society |
| Status: | Active |
| Affiliation: | Independent |
| Scope: | Local |
| Motto: | Latin: Veritas e Aequitas "Truth from Equity" |
| Chapters: | 1 |
| City: | Williamsburg |
| State: | Virginia |
| Country: | United States |
The Wren Society is an American collegiate secret society at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. It was established in 1832.
The Wren Society was founded by John Hadley on October 20, 1832, at the College of William & Mary to honor the two hundredth birthday of Sir Christopher Wren.[1] It quickly grew in prominence.[2] The society went inactive during the American Civil War.[3]
The Wren Society was reactivted by student in the 20th century and has continued to assist the college. Annually, it recognizes campus involvement and academic achievement by presenting the 1832 Award to eight seniors, three professors, two staff members, and a student organization.[4]
It should not be confused with the Christopher Wren Association which is now called the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in Williamsburg, Virginia.[5]
The society is thought to meet late at night on campus in the Wren Building.[6] Its motto is "Latin: Veritas e Aequitas" or "Trust from Equity", and is featured on its crest, along with the founding date of 1832.
The Wren Society invites or 'taps' members based on their academics, service, and leadership within the college community. Membership in the Wren Society is confidential but is rumored to consist of a select number of upperclassmen leaders from all walks of campus life.