Division of Marketing and Communications

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Marketing Resources

Brand standards, applied correctly and consistently, enable us to project a strong, consistent identity for the University of Memphis and help to prevent confusion among our audiences. Proper use of the University's official signatures (logo, secondary logo and seal) is an important part of the branding process, enhancing our image as a quality educational institution.

The term lockup refers the the University of Memphis word mark "The University of Memphis" combined with the "Leaping Tiger" logo to combine an unique visual element. This is often referred to as a logo. 

The University of Memphis lockup is the official identity of the University and must not be altered in any way, including the addition of extra wording or graphic elements.

University faculty and staff are able to download university lockups on Photoshelter using their UofM SSO credentials.

Do not scan logos from other reproductions or download them from other web sites. Reproduction quality will suffer if you do. Also, remember that it is not acceptable to "build" the logo on your computer. 

To help strengthen and build the University of Memphis brand, the use of the full University of Memphis logo lockup is appropriate most applications.

The standalone Leaping Tiger logo is reserved for use by the Department of Athletics and the Division of Marketing and Communications. Use of the standalone mark requires prior approval from the Division of Marketing and Communications.

If you’re unsure which logo is appropriate for your project, our team is happy to help guide you.

The University seal was redesigned to create a distinctive mark that better reflects the University of Memphis. It features five elements: the wordmark, the University’s mace, a laurel wreath, the book of knowledge and the Latin motto Imaginari Cogitare Facere (“Dreamers. Thinkers. Doers.”).

The mace symbolizes leadership, authority and academic tradition and is used only at formal ceremonies with full academic regalia. The book of knowledge includes the Roman numerals “MCMXII,” marking the University’s founding in 1912. The phrase Imaginari Cogitare Facere represents who we are as an institution and who our students become.

The Academic Seal is reserved for official University documents, including diplomas, transcripts, certificates, contracts, formal invitations, major report covers and engraved note cards.

It should not be used as a substitute for the University of Memphis logo.

To request art files of the Academic Seal email marketing@memphis.edu

No. University departments should use their official lockup.

The University lockup system allows for individual recognition while adhereing to the brand established in the primary system.

University campus locations, colleges, schools, academic departments, research and external-facing institutes and centers, and cultural or community engagement units receive official lockups to strengthen recognition and visibility.

Lockups ensure large external- and academic- facing areas are clearly connected to the University of Memphis brand, while also highlighting their unique role within the institution.

No. The "mace and laurel" icon is intrinsic to the secondary logo and may only appear alongside UofM logo on stationery.
The official University of Memphis logo colors are Pantone Matching System (PMS) 2945 C, PMS 422 C. See the Brand Colors section of the University Brand Guidelines for specifics. No other colors are permissible.
You don't. See the Brand Colors section of the University Brand Guidelines for specifics.
Keep in mind that a business card is designed to be a point of contact, so consider carefully how much information really needs to be on the card. Tiger Copy and Graphics reserves the right to determine what information is placed on a business card.
The layout of the letterhead as described in the Brand Standards may not be redesigned.

Typography is an effective tool that adds visual tone to complement your message and helps it stand out. 

The University’s brand fonts reflect our personality and help reinforce our identity.

  • Proxima Nova Family - Typeface
  • Proxima Nova Condensed Family - Longform typeface 
  • Proxima Sera Family - Display typeface
  • Relation Two - Script Typeface

All fonts are available on Adobe Fonts through your UofM credentials, and are suitable for use in print and digital applications.

While Proxima Nova should remain the preferred and default choice there are some instances using alternate typefaces.

Montserrat is used as the primary typeface for university websites.

If Proxima is not available, Arial is the alternate for Microsoft applications such as Outlook or PowerPoint.

Yes. All applications of the logo should use the appropriate TM or R marks.

Yes. If you need a sign made for either the interior or exterior of a building, consult first with Campus Planning and Design via email at bfcpd@memphis.edu.

Many signs will need to include the proper logo, and will need to conform to specific governmental requirements. Do not order signage without checking with Campus Planning and Design.

Yes. All golf carts and utility vehicles must be registered with and approved by Physical Plant.

Golf carts and utility vehicles are approved only for official department or University related business by University employees, student employees and approved volunteers associated with a University department. Golf carts and utility vehicles may not be used for personal use. Departments must coordinate the purchase or transfer of golf carts and utility vehicles through Procurement Services.

The body of the cart/vehicle must be white, and upon receipt, must be branded with approved University logos. For assistance with branding, contact marketing@memphis.edu.