Official SHSU Ring Tradition
The Story Behind Honor
This tradition traces back to a pivotal moment in Sam Houston's life. In 1813, when he joined the U.S. Army, his mother, Elizabeth Houston, handed him a musket and said, "Never disgrace it, for I had rather all my sons should fill one honorable grave than one of them should turn his back to save his life." She placed a small gold band on Sam's finger, engraved with the word "HONOR." Today, when you wear your ring, you carry forward this sacred commitment. This ring honors your own journey, the late nights you persevered, the personal battles you've overcome, and the resilience you've shown when giving up seemed easier. It honors your family's sacrifices, the dreams they set aside so yours could flourish. Whether you become a teacher, engineer or healthcare worker, this ring reminds you that your profession is not just a job - it's a calling to serve with integrity. This word, "Honor," serves as a reminder to all Bearkats that true honor is rooted in service to the community. SHSU's motto, "The measure of a Life is its Service,” encompasses honoring yourself, your journey, and those who believed in you and this is reflected in the Official Ring.
RSVP for the Fall ‘25
Registering for the Fall 2025 Ring Ceremony
Keeping the Tradition Alive
The first Official Ring ceremony took place in the spring of 2004, with the word “Honor” being inscribed inside each ring starting in 2007. By 2014, a new tradition was established, where the rings were placed overnight at the home of General Sam Houston on the eve of the ceremony. Each ring now carries the word “Honor” as a symbol of a deeper commitment to the values that have shaped this institution.
Ring Ceremony FAQ
Frequent questions answered about the Ring Ceremony.
When and Where Can I Order My SHSU Ring In-Person?
Jostens visits campus for Ring Ordering sessions during the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms (6 weeks total). Check for upcoming Ring Ordering dates on the official SHSU Ring website.
Why Can’t I Use a Different Ring Provider?
The university name and logos are protected by federally registered trademarks. Jostens maintains the exclusive right to use the university’s name and/or marks in the design of a class ring. Therefore, we cannot approve an exception for logos/marks to be used by another jeweler. The benefits of adopting one official class ring are as follows:
- Sam Houston State University (SHSU) has a trademarked agreement with Jostens. This ensures the official design, which is approved by a committee of students, faculty, and staff, is consistently used. The SHSU class ring features:
- The ring is symbolic of Sam Houston State University, and its design was approved by a committee of students, faculty, and staff
- The official ring is inscribed with the word “HONOR” symbolic of the ring that Sam Houston’s mother gave him when we went off to battle
- The official ring spends the night in Sam Houston’s home on the eve of each ring ceremony
How do I know which ring fits me?
- Attend the Ring Ordering days in person for ring sizing.
- You can also visit the SHSU Office of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving, where Jostens has some rings on display.
How Many Credit Hours Do I Need to Complete to Order a Ring and Participate in the Ring Ceremony?
- You need a minimum of 75 credit hours to be eligible for ordering and participating in the ceremony. Note: Master’s and Doctoral students can order their rings at any time.
Can I Attend Ring Ordering Days Even if I Don’t Qualify?
- Yes, you are welcome to attend and get sized for your ring or browse the available ring types and prices to prepare for future ordering.
Can I Order My Ring If I Missed the Ring Ordering Deadline or Purchased During an Off Period?
- Yes, you can order your ring online at Jostens.com anytime. However, to participate in the Ring Ceremony for that semester, your ring must be ordered before the official deadline. Rings ordered after the deadline will be included in the following semester’s ceremony. If you cannot attend the ceremony, your ring will be mailed after the event.
Can I Customize My Class Ring?
- Yes! Jostens offers a range of customization options, including different stone colors, metal types, and engravings. You can view these options during the Ring Ordering days or online at Jostens.com.
How Much Are the Rings?
- Prices vary based on the customization options. For detailed pricing information, visit Jostens.com or consult Jostens representatives during Ring Ordering days.
What Should I Do If I Have an Issue with My Ring (Resizing, Stone Fell Out, etc.)?
- Contact Jostens for instructions on how to send your ring to the factory for repairs. For warranty and repair information, visit the Jostens warranty page.
You can predesign rings online and save the design.
Order Online
- Allows you to compare prices, share the link, and ease of ordering day of.
Benefits of Attending In-Person Ring Ordering Sessions
- Personal Assistance: Meet with Jostens representatives in person for detailed assistance.
- Get Sized: Ensure you select the perfect fit for your class ring.
- Explore Options: View the various designs and customization options available for your ring.
- Discounts: Jostens provides a discount for ordering in person on designated days
Connect With Us!
Office Location
Office of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving
John R. Ragsdale Alumni Center
1605 Sam Houston Avenue
Huntsville, TX 77340
Phone & Email
(936) 294 - 2220
Mailing Address
Box 2022
Huntsville, TX 77341