Embedded Files
Artist: Bella Lee
The Emperor card embodies strong leadership, discipline, and stability, aligning perfectly with St. Kate’s Women’s Lead and Influence program. This card encourages taking control of challenges with confidence, setting boundaries, and building solid foundations to support future goals. At St. Kate’s, students are empowered to “sit on that throne” and lead with strength and wisdom in their careers, communities, and beyond. The Emperor reflects the structured academic frameworks that help students think critically and lead with intention, turning their voices into powerful tools for change. The card’s protective energy mirrors the university’s commitment to advocacy and justice, encouraging graduates to create positive impacts and build legacies of support and empowerment. Initiatives like the voter vans demonstrate how St. Kate’s provides tangible resources to help students transform leadership ideals into action. Ultimately, the Emperor inspires stability and responsibility, urging students to embrace their roles as leaders while empowering others to do the same. It’s not just about taking a seat on the throne—it’s about ensuring others can rise to theirs too. So will you sit on the throne?
Why did you choose certain imagery?
I chose imagery that reflects leadership, structure, and empowerment—core themes of the Emperor card—and tied it to St. Catherine University’s commitment to developing women leaders. The throne in the card represents authority and the aspiration to take control of one’s life, mirroring the "I will sit on that throne" energy St. Kate’s instills in its students. The protective stance of the figure and the strong foundation they embody reflect the values of stability and responsibility that are central to the university’s Women’s Lead and Influence program.
Additionally, I drew inspiration from St. Catherine of Alexandria, known for her wisdom, courage, and unwavering commitment to her principles. Her attributes parallel the Emperor’s qualities of discipline and justice, and her story serves as an aspirational model for students at St. Kate’s to lead with strength and integrity.
Reflection of St. Kate’s social justice values and lived experiences
I researched traditional interpretations of the Emperor card through foundational tarot texts, such as Rachel Pollack’s 78 Degrees of Wisdom, to understand its themes of leadership, structure, and stability. I also studied St. Catherine University’s mission, leadership initiatives, and community resources, including the Women’s Lead and Influence program and social justice frameworks. Additional inspiration came from St. Catherine of Alexandria’s story, as her values align closely with the card’s symbolism.
Bibliography
Pollack, Rachel. 78 Degrees of Wisdom. HarperCollins, 1980.
St. Catherine University. “Lead and Influence Program Overview.” St. Catherine University.
St. Catherine University. “Our Mission and Social Justice Commitment.”
Smith, Pamela Colman, and Waite, A.E. The Rider-Waite Tarot Deck. 1909.
Symbolism and takeaways
The Throne: Symbolizes leadership and the solid foundation students create at St. Kate’s, empowering them to influence their communities and careers. Instead of adding a masculine figure as in other decks, I chose to leave it empty for the user to envision someone sitting there.
Perspective: Close and reachable was my aim to make it feel welcoming and achievable.
Reflection of St. Kate's
The imagery reflects the social justice focus of St. Catherine University by emphasizing leadership that is inclusive and responsible. The protective energy of the Emperor resonates with St. Kate’s mission to create advocates for justice, equity, and the well-being of their communities. Resources like the voter vans and leadership programs ensure students not only develop their voices but also use them to create systemic change. The card’s themes of stability and legacy connect directly to the university’s dedication to shaping future leaders who contribute to a more just and equitable world.
Page updated
Report abuse