Unique Logos and Graphic Elements

Although the University administration understands the desire to use unique logos or graphic elements, the University's primary communication goal is to create a strong, overarching identity that is visually recognizable by the many audiences served by the University of North Dakota.

By reducing the use of unique logos, UND can achieve visual continuity, which helps our stakeholders to quickly and easily identify the many entities under the University umbrella.

Limited Special Approvals for Unique UND Logos

On occasion, special University events, non-academic programs / services, major advertising campaigns, and externally funded units may benefit from unique University identity beyond the official marks included within the UND Logo System.

On these occasions, the Division of University & Public Affairs (U&PA) may grant special approvals for Unique UND Logos to be used for:

• Non-academic programs / services (e.g., Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, The Link)
• Official student organizations
• Special University events (e.g., Homecoming, Writer’s Conference)
• Significant and prominent advertising campaigns
• Externally funded units (e.g., UND Research Foundation)

Keep in mind that Unique UND Logos require special approval from U&PA, but non-UND logos / graphic elements do not. The table below outlines the differences between Unique UND Logos and non-UND logos / graphic elements.

For questions, contact U&PA at 701.777.2731 or identity@UND.edu.

Questions about adopting, using, and protecting other trademarks and logos, such as those that do not incorporate the University's official identity, in connection with University goods or services should be directed to the Office of General Counsel.

Please consult with your unit's UND Design Group member prior to requesting Unique UND Logos. It preferred that Unique UND Logos are requested by your unit's marketing, communication, or graphic design professionals. To request the special approval of a Unique UND Logo, complete the Unique UND Request Form.

Unique UND Logos vs. Graphic Elements

Unique UND Logo	Non-UND Logo or Graphic Element
Incorporates all or part of the UND Logotype (including the flame) into the design. Additional text or graphic elements may be close to, but not touch, cover or overlap, any part of the UND Logotype.	Does not use any part of the UND Logotype in the design, including the flame. Graphic elements must have a clear delineation and visual separation (at least 1 inch space or 50% of the height of the graphic element) from the UND Logotype and/or the UND Flame Logo.
Uses the University of North Dakota and/or UND as part of the official name of the special event, non-academic program / service, student organization, advertising campaign, or externally funded unit.	Does not use UND as part of the official name of the special event, non-academic program / service, student organization, advertising campaign, or externally funded unit.
Considered "permanent" or part of its ongoing, long-term identity.	Considered "temporary" or likely to change on a frequent basis.
May stand alone on print and electronic communications, as long as the University is properly identified in external communications and advertising.	Cannot stand alone on print and electronic communications. Graphic elements require the addition of an official mark from the UND Logo System to properly identify the University and/or Unit.
May be used in advertising, on websites, and on specialty promotional items, clothing, letterhead, business cards, envelopes, forms and other collateral materials specific to the major special event, non-academic program / service, student organization, advertising campaign, or externally funded unit.	May be used in advertising and on specialty promotional items, clothing, and other collateral materials specific to the major special event, non-academic program / service, student organization, advertising campaign, or externally funded unit.
Needs approval from the UND U&PA.	Does not need approval from the UND U&PA, but units should follow the Identity Guidelines as much as possible with choice of colors, typefaces, and other design elements.