the Order of the Skate Tree
Full name: the Most Sacred Order of the Skate Tree.

A member of the Order shall be known as a Knight Exemplary of the Most Sacred Order of the Skate Tree.

Women of valor who posses the true HPU spirit are eligible for membership as well. A female member of the Order shall be known as a Lady Exemplary of the Most Sacred Order of the Skate Tree.

Membership in the Order of the Skate Tree shall be given only to persons of great honor, posessing the true HPU spirit, who have done their part to ensure a great love of Howard Payne University and the continuance of the true HPU spirit.

Persons meeting the qualifications may be nominated for membership by any member of the Order. As an administrative formality, approval must be granted by the Scribe. The consensus of the members is valued in this process.
The person so honored must accept the honor before the membership is considered valid.

Removal from the Order is rare, but possible. Defing or betraying the true HPU spirit is the sole cause for removal. Removal is performed by the Scribe.


The true HPU spirit is difficult to define, yet is known intimately by all those who have felt and experienced it. It is characterized by a love for Howard Payne University, a love and respect for God and country, and the valuing of freedom (as Christians, as Americans, as Texans, et cetera). These and other values define the true HPU spirit.