Why VERISS?

Marcus Aurelius, one of the greatest Roman Emperors, acquired the reputation of a ‘philosopher king’ through daily practice of Stoic virtues, combining the required actions of an emperor with the rigorous daily contemplation of a philosopher.

Why “VERISS?” The Roman Emperor Hadrian selected Marcus to eventually succeed him, even though they were not related, and he nicknamed the young Marcus “Verissimus,” a pun meaning “most truthful.”

VERISS is our shorthand for everything Marcus stood for – the Stoic virtues of courage, justice, wisdom, and moderation, plus the fortitude to not just be a philosopher ensconced in books and deep thoughts, but also to put these virtues into action every single day.

It is Marcus’ example - his will to act in accordance with his values, to do the most good, to constantly improve - that inspires everything we do at VERISS.