The College seal was redesigned by Guy A. Ritter, professor of philosophy and religion, and approved by the Board of Trustees in April 1964. It shows a blue shield and yellow cross that symbolizes Roanoke's affiliation with the Lutheran Church and Judeo-Christian values. Above the shield is the lamp of knowledge. The white dogwood flower on the shield is a symbol of the state of Virginia. The motto, "Palmam Qui Meruit Ferat" means "Let him who earns the palm wear it" and honors academic achievement. The palm leaf represented on both sides of the seal was given in honor of excellence in ancient Greece.

The seal in front of the Administration Building was a fairly recent addition to the Roanoke campus. It was built in 1995 as a way to recognize those who contribute to the Roanoke Fund. The seal is the centerpiece of the Founders Circle. The Heritage Walk connects the Founders Circle to the Roanoke College Sign located at College Avenue.

The brick pavers along Heritage Walk and the Founders Circle are permanent symbols of investment in the College and of a commitment to quality liberal arts education. Those who contribute annual gifts of $10,000 or more receive an inscription on the pavers inside the Founders Circle. The College recognizes donors of $5,000 or more with personalized pavers on the Heritage Walk.

There is a superstition among students that anyone who steps on the seal inside the Founders Circle will not graduate.

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