Protect the Augusta University name and logo
The Augusta University Brand Guidelines govern the use of all University logos and trademarks for any purpose and applies to the entire University system. Consistency in the use of University logos strengthens their value and our ability to protect them from unauthorized use.
Augusta University logos and the trademarked Augusta University name cannot be modified and cannot be used to:
- promote a political party or candidate
- promote alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes, cannabis or other drug products
- seek to distinguish the shared characteristics of one group from other groups
- promote a person, product, service, business or cause that is not officially supported or sanctioned by the University.
The Communications & Marketing department should be consulted whenever it is unclear if a proposed use is permissible.
A consistent use of the University’s brand brings together the efforts of all who constitute the University; it unifies and strengthens the University’s reputation; and it distinguishes Augusta University other institutions of higher learning, enhancing its relationships with all constituencies, public and private.
General
Campuses, colleges, departments and individuals may only use University trademarks in strict accordance with this criteria and the graphics requirements in the Augusta University Brand Guidelines. For all general inquiries on usage or approval, contact the department of Communications and Marketing.
In general:
- No University trademark may be altered or combined with any other mark or element.
- A unit may use its name with the University’s wordmark only as outlined on the brand site or on approved and official logos.
- University colors and branded elements must appear prominently on all official communication and marketing materials.
- The use of official University letterhead and business cards is required in all matters of official University business.
- Use of University trademarks in print and electronic materials including email and social media must conform to brand requirements.
- University trademarks may be used on commercial merchandise only by persons and entities licensed by the University’s exclusive licensing agent.
Use of University Trademarks and Logos
By University Colleges, Schools, Departments, Campus Life Programs and Other Units
Units are required to use the official logos for their area and may use institutional branding in connection with official University business.
Each of the University’s units has unique attributes that enrich the University brand. When developing individual marketing programs to highlight their unique attributes, units are encouraged to work with the department of Communications & Marketing to assure the successful integration of such programs with the University brand.
By Student Organizations
Registered student organizations at Augusta University are allowed the use of the institutional branding in compliance with their advisors and in connection with approved logos. All Augusta University official logos and trademark may not be altered or combined with other elements or graphics. More information on guidelines and best practices are available in the university brand guidelines. Official student groups on campus should consult their campus leadership for the rules to determine applicability.
Campus Life Programs should refer to “By colleges, schools departments, Campus Life Programs, and other units” above for applicable policy.
By Faculty, Staff, and Students
No individual faculty, staff, student, or group may use any University trademark or the official web template header and footer, or refer to their affiliation with the University, to indicate support or endorsement of anything that is not official University business. Potential confusion should be dispelled by adding a disclaimer stating that the University is not involved in the subject of the statement.
Athletics Department staff may conduct summer camps and clinics as such activities are commonly understood. The use of the name of the University or any title which would imply University endorsement or sponsorship is specifically prohibited unless the camp or clinic is developed and operated as a University-sponsored program or the camp or clinic is held in a campus facility and the athletics director gives written permission for the use of specific identifying terms.
By Persons and/or Entities Outside the University
University trademarks may be used by persons or entities outside the University only pursuant to a license, memorandum of understanding, or sponsorship agreement stating the terms and conditions of such use. All memoranda of understanding and sponsorship agreements are subject to the approval of the Legal team at Augusta University.
Prohibited Uses of University Trademarks
No Endorsements
Neither the name of the University nor any University trademark, including University colors, may be used in any way that states or implies endorsement of a commercial product or service, gives a false impression, is misleading, or could cause confusion regarding the University’s relationship with any person or entity. Statements that the University is a user or purchaser of a product or program are permitted if true. Use of University trademarks are not allowed in third-party communications including vendor websites or other communications aimed at marketing their products or services.
General Prohibition
Neither the name of the University nor any University trademark may be used in any manner that could adversely affect the University’s image or standing or would for any other reason be inappropriate for a public research university. Such proscribed uses include, but are not limited to, the use of University trademarks to promote cigarettes or other tobacco products, illegal or controlled substances and related paraphernalia, sexually oriented products or services, religious products, political parties or organizations, gaming or games of chance, and firearms.
Violations
If a violation of this policy is identified, units will be required to work with the department of Communications & Marketing and the Brand Governance Committee to determine the action needed, which may include redesign of print and/or electronic materials. With respect to all violations, the University reserves its right to seek appropriate remedies under applicable federal or state law.