Have you ever wondered about the origins of the letter “Sor” (ส.) associated with Suan Sunandha?

The letter “Sor” (ส.)—seen on uniforms, souvenirs, media materials, and at various events—is not merely an abbreviation for “Suan Sunandha”; it is a symbol that encapsulates the institution's historical narrative.

The Origins: “Suan Sunandha”

The university grounds were formerly part of Suan Sunandha Palace, a royal residential area within the Dusit Palace complex established by the gracious command of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

The name "Suan Sunandha" draws a connection to both "Sunandha Utthayan"—the garden of Indra in the Tavatimsa heaven—and the name of Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana.

Subsequently, on May 17, 1937, the site began operations as "Suan Sunandha College" (Suan Sunandha Witthayalai School), before evolving into a teachers' college, a Rajabhat Institute, and finally, the present-day Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University.

**Before the "S" Emblem: The Goddess Motif**

In its early years, Suan Sunandha College used an emblem depicting a "goddess standing on a cloud with hands pressed together in a *wai* (salutation)" on students' uniforms and belt buckles; this design remained in use until approximately 1965.

However, there is no clear recorded evidence regarding the true significance of the goddess figure; thus, it is merely hypothesized that the image may be linked to Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana, the Queen Consort.

1965: The Origin of the “S” Emblem

Suan Sunandha wished to honor Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana, the Queen Consort, and therefore sought to adopt her personal emblem—found on the monument at Bang Pa-In Royal Palace—as the model for the institution's own symbol.

Following royal authorization, the institution’s emblem was changed to the red Thai letter “Sor” (S) positioned beneath a crown.

The letter “Sor” signifies more than just an abbreviation for Suan Sunandha; it is rooted in the royal monogram of Her Majesty Queen Sunandha Kumariratana and reflects a commitment to preserving her memory.

From the “Sor” Emblem to the Royal Seal

In 1992, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) bestowed the name "Rajabhat Institute" upon teachers' colleges nationwide.

Subsequently, in 1995, His Majesty’s personal royal seal was granted to serve as the emblem for the Rajabhat Institutes. This preceded the elevation of Suan Sunandha Rajabhat Institute to "Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University" under the Rajabhat University Act of 2004.

Yet, the letter "S" has never vanished from Suan Sunandha.

Although the Royal Seal serves as the university’s official emblem, the “Sor” (ส.) symbol continues to appear in media, activities, and souvenirs, and also serves as the emblem for the Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University Demonstration School.

This is because “Sor” is not merely a character; it is a symbol that connects the royal name, history, and the bonds shared by the Suan Sunandha community from the past to the present.

Which generation of the Suan Sunandha community has used or seen the “Sor” symbol, and where? Come share your memories!