Why a visual identity?

Branding is vital for establishing and maintaining a distinct identity, fostering trust, and building long-term relationships. It goes beyond just a logo or a name; it encapsulates the essence of the university, encompassing its values, mission, and the promises. Following branding is of the utmost importance as it ensures consistency, reinforces messaging, facilitates recognition, and reflects a commitment to professionalism, all of which contribute to the overall success and sustainability of a brand.

Consistency & Commitment 

Consistency is key. Consistency ensures a unified and coherent representation of the brand across various touch points, be it in marketing materials, products, or digital platforms. This consistency cultivates a sense of reliability and professionalism, contributing to a positive perception of the brand.

Following branding standards reinforces the brand’s messaging and positioning. By adhering to a set of guidelines, organizations can maintain a cohesive narrative that aligns with their values and resonates with their audience. This harmony in messaging enhances brand recall and reinforces the brand’s unique identity.

Who are the visual identity guidelines for?

All academic, outreach, student services, student organizations, and administrative units that are affiliated with university must follow the visual identity guidelines. Outside agencies that create print or electronic materials for any University units must also follow the guidelines. All University marks are protected by trademark. Vendors producing merchandise using any university marks, for use either internally or externally, must be registered with the university’s official licensing agency, the Collegiate Licensing Company. Only vendors officially licensed through CLC may produce merchandise or other goods bearing University marks.

These guidelines apply to all external and internal communications, including advertising, websites, brochures, invitations, direct mail, postcards, fliers, booklets, catalogs, t-shirts, case statements, posters, billboards, banners and other environmental graphics, video, DVD, CD, film, presentations and stationery.

Failure to comply with these university branding guidelines may necessitate the reproduction of materials at the expense of the unit or department responsible for creation. Failure to adhere to these guidelines by an employee, student, vendor/contractor, department, academic unit, or affiliate may lead to a discontinuation of communication. In the case of an employee, non-compliance will be reported to their supervisor for appropriate action. For vendors or contractors, failure to adhere to these guidelines constitutes grounds for terminating their contract. Non-University affiliated or unauthorized event promotions displayed on campus must be promptly removed, including business-related promotions.