Miami University

Official Websites

• https://miamioh.edu

Brand Guidelines

2014

Brand Summary

Mission

• To provide the best undergraduate experience in the nation, enhanced by superior and select graduate programs, and to transform students through a culture of vigorous academics in a classic collegiate setting, inspiring them to become successful graduates and lifelong leaders through intensely personalized living and learning experiences.

Core Values

• vigorous academics
• engaged, innovative faculty scholars
• intensely personalized experience
• highly successful graduates
• stunning, classic collegiate setting
• global connections
• multicultural competence
• immersive and transformative living, learning, and leadership experiences

Target Audience

• Prospective students, parents, alumni, legislators, donors, faculty, staff, board members, and other internal audiences, with a primary focus on undergraduate students and those seeking a classic collegiate experience.

Personality Traits

• confident
• friendly
• personal
• approachable
• smart
• prestigious
• beautiful/stunning campus
• student success
• community service
• strong academics
• excellence

Visual Identity Overview

• The visual identity centers on the beveled-M mark, red and white as primary colors (with black for contrast), formal and informal logo signatures, consistent use of typography (Austin, Gotham, Bembo, Georgia, Helvetica), vibrant and flexible color palettes, and a graphic style that emphasizes clarity, boldness, and a classic collegiate aesthetic. Photography and video are genuine, energetic, and diverse, avoiding posed or overly polished visuals.

Categories

Brand Voice

• Producing a publication or any communication “in brand” simply means that we talk and visually represent Miami in a way that is authentic to our brand image and promise. Miami’s brand promise says that we live for moments that transform student’s lives, so we try to share as many stories as we can, often through the voice of our students or faculty, to demonstrate this passion. Our promise also indicates we are “intensely personal,” therefore our communications and marketing material tends to be worded in an approachable, informal and conversational style. And our commitment to undergraduate student experience and success is conveyed in a variety of ways and in a variety of mediums through the written word, video, photography, stories and profiles of dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni.
• We strive to use a confident, friendly, and personal tone in our communications, talking “with” our audiences as opposed to “at” them. It is our goal to be approachable in tone of voice, and to provide relevant information. So, first-person is desirable, and conversational style preferred. (See samples in this section).
• Miami’s “voice” in social media environments is similar to its style in publications: conversational, friendly, approachable. Often, we ask for audience reaction, and find that this style helps us in interacting with our audiences and encourages their response and involvement.

Brand Imagery

• Photography and video should feel genuine, energetic and “in the moment,” using as much natural light as possible to capture the “natural moments” that define the Miami experience. Scripted video or posed photography is avoided unless absolutely necessary.
• We also strive to incorporate the way Miami advocates multicultural understanding and global involvement by reflecting diverse individuals in our visual material.

Color Palette

• Miami often uses vibrant colors with complementary palettes to convey an engaged, vibrant university environment. We also find the palette provides a great deal of flexibility and customization for a wide variety of subject matter. We also use a pattern accent on some pieces as a border, background, or call-out element -to help a piece stand out in a mailbox, for example.
• PMS186 Co M97 Y80 K30 R196 G18 B48 PMS 7405 CO M18 Y100 KO R255 G221 BO 50% PMS 578 C35 MO Y56 KO R195 G215 B164 50% PMS 7712 C100 MOY29 K13 RO G123 B137 PMS 7579 C0 M79 Y94 KO R225 G88 B41
• University colors are red and white. For the formal logo, we incorporate the use of black to set it apart and make it “pop.” You will see all color variations of the logo on the following pages.
• When printing with Pantone 186 and black, the logotype should print black, and the center of the M mark should only appear red or white, as shown on the following pages.
• When one-color printing is necessary, the entire signature may be printed in one of the Miami colors: Pantone 186, white, or 100% black.
• When reversing the logo to white or when printing it in white ink over a dark or black background, use the alternative mark provided for such purposes as shown above. The center of the M should only appear as white or red.
• Do not reverse the signature on a light background.
• Do not change or exchange colors of the signature. (Some exceptions for retail fashion trends may be allowed for limited time periods and use, based on Logo Review/Brand Identity Committee review).
• Do not print the signature over a dark background.
• The official University colors are red (PMS 186) and white. These should be the most prominent colors across all pages. Secondary colors can be used as accents and to emphasize pieces of content.

Typography

• The Miami University wordmark is a unique typographic treatment of the University name. Do not attempt to recreate the wordmark or any part thereof through typesetting. There is no comparable font available and spacing letters correctly is difficult.
• The wordmark should be combined with the Miami beveled-M in most instances; the elements can be separated or the word mark can appear alone in complex or busy designs.
• The preferred use for external audiences is with the date.
• Wordmarks can be downloaded at MiamiOH.edu/UCM
• Adobe Bembo Small Caps – For use with academic division name ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 1234567890
• Adobe Bembo Semibold Italic – For use with department name ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz 1234567890
• The primary typeface complementing the signature and used on all fundamental communications, such as stationery, is Adobe Bembo.
• Academic division name can be separated from the logo on a publication, but must appear in Bembo Small Caps font to show its connection to the university.
• Departmental names can be included beneath the division name with the use of the font Bembo Medium Italics.
• Departmental names are not required, and can be separated from the logo.
• Body copy should be set in either Minion Pro (a serif alternative to Austin for small type readability) or Gotham Book, and should never be smaller than 7 points.
• Headlines are typically set in varying boldness of Austin italic to distinguish them from body copy. Austin and Gotham can be combined to create “big type moments,” when typography is used as a graphic to highlight specific text. This treatment should be used sparingly, but can be very effective.
• Our typefaces that have been chosen to reflect this style of speaking, and which have had good feedback from our audiences for their readability and distinctiveness, are Austin (serif) and Gotham (sans serif). Alternative Web-friendly typefaces that are similar are Georgia (serif) as an alternative to Austin, and Helvetica (sans serif) in place of Gotham.
• College, school, department, and unit sites should use official colors and fonts in headers, footers, banners, and other page regions to maintain consistency with the Miami homepage and ensure ease of navigation for visitors.
• The official University web fonts are Georgia, for use in headings, and Helvetica, for body copy. Division, department, office, and organization wordmarks use the Bembo font.
• Miami wordmarks use the Bembo small caps font for division names and the Bembo italic font for naming departments, offices, organizations, programs etc. In some special cases the wordmark can contain alternative fonts that compliment the brand. Contact UCM for wordmark approval prior to use.

Logo Usage

• Miami University should be prominently identified on the front cover or panel of each publication with an official Miami mark as identified in this guide. As a general rule of thumb, the wordmark portion of the logo should be no smaller than 2" wide on a standard 4" x 9" brochure, and proportionally larger for bigger publications. The beveled-M can appear in combination with a department or unit name, or separately from it, depending on what best suits the design of the piece.
• To promote a consistent visual identity, Miami University logos can vary in size, but cannot otherwise be altered, modified, or overprinted. Some examples of incorrect usage are provided in this manual. Independently created logos conflict and compete with institutional identity and should not be used, except for rare situations where partnerships or contracts require additional marks.
• Spirit-wear merchandise available in retail outlets – and athletics/spirit material such as game schedules, buttons, or posters used by Intercollegiate Athletics – may feature creative variations of the beveled-M. It may, for example, appear overprinted, juxtaposed with other graphic elements, or other altered form based on competitive, national fashion trends. Such uses are approved on a case­by-case basis for licensed vendors and manufacturers at the retail level ONLY, and not for official university, student or academic publications or material.
• When using any version of the Miami logo/signature with other ele­ments, spatial integrity must be maintained. To accomplish this, create a border surrounding all parts of the signature to separate it from other elements, as well as the edge of the page. This border should always measure a minimum distance equal to 50% of the Miami mark.
• The Miami mark should never appear smaller than 1/2 inch across on a standard 4"x9" brochure, and should be more prominent in publications of larger size.
• The Miami mark without the words “Miami University” or “Miami” should never appear smaller than 3/8 inch across.
• The word “University” in the Miami wordmark should never appear smaller than 1 1/2 inches.
• Do not reverse the signature on a light background.
• Do not change or exchange colors of the signature. (Some exceptions for retail fashion trends may be allowed for limited time periods and use, based on Logo Review/Brand Identity Committee review).
• Do not print the signature over a dark background.
• Never reconfigure the identity elements.
• Do not distort the identity elements.
• Do not repeat element to create an identity pattern.
• Never surround the identity elements with another shape in a way that can constitute another logo.
• Do not crop or truncate the mark.
• Do not use the logo for bullet points.
• Do not use the identity elements as part of another word.
• Do not put the mark next to a one line version of the wordmark.
• No mark should be distorted, stretched, rotated, or drop-shadowed at any time.
• The Logo must be front facing with nothing appearing over the top of the mark.
• Any variations of these marks for special use such as retail, promotion, fashion trends or other unique circumstances must be reviewed and approved in writing by the university.
• The official colors of Miami University are RedHawk Red and White.
• For RedHawk Red, use PANTONE® 186
• For RedHawk Black, use PANTONE® Process Black
• Reproduction of any logos or wordmarks is prohibited without the approval of Miami University and the Licensing Resource Group, Inc.

Tone And Messaging

• Producing a publication or any communication “in brand” simply means that we talk and visually represent Miami in a way that is authentic to our brand image and promise. Miami’s brand promise says that we live for moments that transform student’s lives, so we try to share as many stories as we can, often through the voice of our students or faculty, to demonstrate this passion. Our promise also indicates we are “intensely personal,” therefore our communications and marketing material tends to be worded in an approachable, informal and conversational style. And our commitment to undergraduate student experience and success is conveyed in a variety of ways and in a variety of mediums through the written word, video, photography, stories and profiles of dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni.
• We strive to use a confident, friendly, and personal tone in our communications, talking “with” our audiences as opposed to “at” them. It is our goal to be approachable in tone of voice, and to provide relevant information. So, first-person is desirable, and conversational style preferred. (See samples in this section).
• Miami’s “voice” in social media environments is similar to its style in publications: conversational, friendly, approachable. Often, we ask for audience reaction, and find that this style helps us in interacting with our audiences and encourages their response and involvement.

Brand Values

• Our vision is to provide the best undergraduate experience in the nation, enhanced by superior and select graduate programs.
• At Miami, we live for moments that transform students. A 200+ year culture of vigorous academics thrives in a stunning, classic, collegiate setting where faculty scholars inspire ambitious students to become successful graduates and lifelong leaders through intensely personalized living and learning experiences.
• Our brand tenets extend our brand message by calling out important points of our promise; in publications, video and other promotional materials, we strive to demonstrate these tenets in varying ways – in text, photography, storytelling, or in the voice of an individual.
• VIGOROUS ACADEMICS led by ENGAGED, INNOVATIVE FACULTY SCHOLARS
• INTENSELY PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE
• HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL GRADUATES
• STUNNING, CLASSIC COLLEGIATE SETTING
• GLOBAL CONNECTIONS and MULTICULTURAL COMPETENCE
• IMMERSIVE AND TRANSFORMATIVE LIVING, LEARNING, AND LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCES

Visual Style

• Miami University should be prominently identified on the front cover or panel of each publication with an official Miami mark as identified in this guide. As a general rule of thumb, the wordmark portion of the logo should be no smaller than 2" wide on a standard 4" x 9" brochure, and proportionally larger for bigger publications. The beveled-M can appear in combination with a department or unit name, or separately from it, depending on what best suits the design of the piece.
• To promote a consistent visual identity, Miami University logos can vary in size, but cannot otherwise be altered, modified, or overprinted. Some examples of incorrect usage are provided in this manual. Independently created logos conflict and compete with institutional identity and should not be used, except for rare situations where partnerships or contracts require additional marks.
• Spirit-wear merchandise available in retail outlets – and athletics/spirit material such as game schedules, buttons, or posters used by Intercollegiate Athletics – may feature creative variations of the beveled-M. It may, for example, appear overprinted, juxtaposed with other graphic elements, or other altered form based on competitive, national fashion trends. Such uses are approved on a case­by-case basis for licensed vendors and manufacturers at the retail level ONLY, and not for official university, student or academic publications or material.

Layout And Composition

• Miami University should be prominently identified on the front cover or panel of each publication with an official Miami mark as identified in this guide. As a general rule of thumb, the wordmark portion of the logo should be no smaller than 2" wide on a standard 4" x 9" brochure, and proportionally larger for bigger publications. The beveled-M can appear in combination with a department or unit name, or separately from it, depending on what best suits the design of the piece.
• To promote a consistent visual identity, Miami University logos can vary in size, but cannot otherwise be altered, modified, or overprinted. Some examples of incorrect usage are provided in this manual. Independently created logos conflict and compete with institutional identity and should not be used, except for rare situations where partnerships or contracts require additional marks.
• Spirit-wear merchandise available in retail outlets – and athletics/spirit material such as game schedules, buttons, or posters used by Intercollegiate Athletics – may feature creative variations of the beveled-M. It may, for example, appear overprinted, juxtaposed with other graphic elements, or other altered form based on competitive, national fashion trends. Such uses are approved on a case­by-case basis for licensed vendors and manufacturers at the retail level ONLY, and not for official university, student or academic publications or material.

Brand Architecture

• This identity and these standards should now replace all independent logos, graphic signatures and other “marks” that compete with Miami University’s identity and weaken our presence.
• Adhering consistently to these standards will help Miami achieve a stronger identity and greater recognition, increase the prominence of our programs and units by visually aligning them with our most recognizable mark, make a stronger impression on prospective students and their parents, and ensure that our varied and diverse constituencies appreciate all that Miami has to offer.
• A unified University identity is crucial in enhancing and expanding visibility, it is more important than ever that we unite ourselves visually behind the symbol most widely known by all of our audiences.
• Independently created logos conflict and compete with institutional identity and should not be used, except for rare situations where partnerships or contracts require additional marks.
• To promote a consistent visual identity, Miami University logos can vary in size, but cannot otherwise be altered, modified, or overprinted.

Merchandising Guidelines

• Spirit-wear merchandise available in retail outlets – and athletics/spirit material such as game schedules, buttons, or posters used by Intercollegiate Athletics – may feature creative variations of the beveled-M. It may, for example, appear overprinted, juxtaposed with other graphic elements, or other altered form based on competitive, national fashion trends. Such uses are approved on a case­by-case basis for licensed vendors and manufacturers at the retail level ONLY, and not for official university, student or academic publications or material.
• The Department of University Communications and Marketing at Miami University regulates the commercial use of the university’s name and all identifying marks, both on and off campus, to ensure the protection of Miami’s excellent reputation and maintain high standards of use. Campus departments, student organizations and external groups frequently purchase merchandise that use university symbols, logos, and marks. These items range from lapel pins, backpacks, photo frames, and mugs to types of clothing and even high-end merchandise for special occasions. Since each of these is an extension of the university’s image, and just as there are standards for print material, there are standards for items available for retail sale or for use by organizations.
• Only campus departments and student organizations that are officially recognized by or are part of the university are allowed to use Miami logos, symbols and marks (trademarks) in conjunction with their name, and in doing so, must have approval prior to use.
• Miami products can be made only by licensees who are under contract with LRG, the university’s licensing agency. The licensing program through LRG protects Miami’s name and image and is critical to ensure the appropriate visibility of the university, and earned licensing fees benefit student scholarships.
• All manufacturers of products bearing the trademarks of Miami University must enter into a nonexclusive Trademark License Agreement with the university. The Licensing Resource Group (LRG) administers Miami’s Licensing Program. Information and an application for licensing are available at the LRG website, http://www.lrgusa.com. Once a licensing agreement has been signed, camera-ready artwork and electronic files of university and intercollegiate athletics trademarks are submitted for approval by the Office of University Trademarks and Licensing.
• All items for resale/retail and merchandise-type items that are imprinted with a Miami University trademark require licensing, or working with a licensed vendor. Print material that is not for resale such as stationery, note cards, banners, ads or brochures do not require licensing, although a separate approval process is required for any use of marks or logos in those items (that process is managed through University Communications and Marketing or IT Print Services). The symbols and trademarks included as part of Miami’s licensing program include the name of the university, the university seal, the intercollegiate athletics logos and wordmarks, including “RedHawks,” and all other identifying marks of the university. This also includes the athletics logos of the Hamilton and Middletown campuses. Licensing is required regardless of whether the material is produced for resale or for use by units of the university.
• Spirit-wear merchandise available in retail outlets – and athletics/spirit material such as game schedules, buttons, or posters used by Intercollegiate Athletics – may feature creative variations of the beveled-M. It may, for example, appear overprinted, juxtaposed with other graphic elements, or other altered form based on competitive, national fashion trends. Such uses are approved on a case-by-case basis for licensed vendors and manufacturers at the retail level ONLY, and not for official university, student or academic publications or material.
• Miami reserves the right to request changes or disallow designs that 1) do not adhere to standards, 2) that may conflict with current symbols or marks, 3) that might be seen as offensive or in poor taste, and 4) do not reflect a level of quality and design appropriate for Miami. Note that sometimes there is no firm standard and a design falls into a ‘gray area’; however, Miami again must reserve the right to request changes and will work with areas to address any concerns or recommend an alternative.
• Independently created logos for official Miami departments, divisions, or offices, including student organizations that are officially financed as a department or office within student affairs, are not permitted, although certain symbols used nationally for certification purposes may be used to establish such affiliation if used separately from Miami marks. The Miami logo must be prominent and aligned visually with official department/area/division names. All areas should follow the guidelines in this manual for print material to ensure approval.
• The name, seal, and most recognized logos associated with Miami University are registered with the State of Ohio or the U.S. Government as service marks or trademarks, and are the exclusive property of the University. Reproduction of these marks for resale or other commercial purposes must have University authorization. The University is responsible for protecting these service marks and licensing commercial use of the marks.
• Any person, organization, or corporation manufacturing a product or providing a service bearing or containing any of the marks of the University, or applying the marks to merchandise manufactured by others, must, prior to the use of such marks, enter into a license agreement with the University. The standard license agreement is a royalty-bearing agreement, providing for a payment to the University of 10% of the wholesale price of the completed merchandise, unless an exemption is granted as indicated below. Royalties are paid quarterly per the terms of the agreement, and funds raised are used to provide undergraduate scholarships through the Office of Student Financial Assistance and the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. Limited licensing agreements are available for one-time production, or for production of items provided directly to the University for internal use and not for resale.
• Any company that manufactures products containing the registered names and logos of the University, affixes the marks on merchandise manufactured by others, must be licensed. Individuals or companies that do neither of the above, but simply resell merchandise produced by others, do not need to be licensed, but must purchase merchandise bearing University marks from manufacturers or producers who are licensed.
• To ensure that products offered are of a level of quality consistent with the goals of the University for merchandise bearing its marks, pending licensees are required to submit representative product samples to LRG for approval. Licensees are likewise required to seek approval from LRG for additional product lines introduced over the life of the agreement.
• All items produced under the licensing agreement and offered for resale must bear the name of the licensee, and must be tagged or labeled with the independent “collegiate licensed product” sticker.
• Prior to the production of any merchandise containing Miami University marks, licensees must submit artwork through the Miami University trademark online site at MiamiOH.edu/trademark for approval. Artwork approval is required for each new design or application produced, regardless of who orders it. This includes merchandise ordered by University departments and student groups/organizations, and is in addition to any approval that is required by the individual orderer. Artwork approval is not required for re-orders of previously approved designs.
• The requirement for artwork approval is to ensure that the marks of the University are correctly presented and do not reflect unfavorably on the University in the context which they will be used. The University will attempt to provide as much design latitude as possible, keeping in mind the intended consumers; however, designs for events that promote alcoholic beverages or drinking will not be approved. All designs submitted are held in confidence, and are not shared with nor made available to other licensees, retailers, or University departments for copying.
• All use of Miami names, wordmarks and symbols/logos on merchandise or items intended for retail/resale MUST use a copyright or TM designation.
• Under certain conditions, the University grants exemptions from the payment of royalties for merchandise bearing University marks. These conditions include: 1. Non-commercial in-house use - University departments and registered student organizations (including fraternities and sororities) may use service marks on posters, signs, banners, etc. dealing with on-campus activities of the organization, provided such use reflects positively on the University, and logos are reproduced accurately. Such use does not require licensing, royalty payment, prior approval, or artwork submission; however, the University licensing manager may require removal of University marks if the usage is deemed inappropriate. This non-commercial exemption is extended to party or event favors/souvenirs for student organizations if all of the following conditions are met: the item is a favor for a dated party or event sponsored by the organization; the item will be given to or sold at cost to members/guests by the organization; the only use of University marks is “Miami” or “Miami University” as a location designation on the chest print or similar location. If any one of the above conditions are not met, the non­commercial exemption does not apply, artwork approval is required, and royalty is due unless an exemption is applied for and granted as a student organization fundraiser, below.
• Registered student organizations may sell or give away products (such as t-shirts) bearing service marks of the University combined with the names and logos of their organization or activity without payment of royalties if such merchandise relates directly to an on-campus activity sponsored by that organization. Examples of such projects or events include: Homecoming weekend, Greek week, Kidsfest, etc. The merchandise must be purchased from a licensed manufacturer/vendor and is subject to approval.
• Student organization exemptions will not be granted for merchandise with a general theme or for university-wide events/activities and containing University marks that compete for sales with licensed, royalty-bearing merchandise offered by local or campus retailers. Such merchandise may be produced by licensees and sold by student organizations; however, royalties are due the University per the licensing agreement.
• If any one of the above conditions are not met, the non-commercial exemption does not apply, and artwork approval is required.
• Where the University desires to permit a producer to use University marks for commercial purposes for a special event or other short-term need, a “Short-Term Non-exclusive License” may be issued. The Miami University licensing manager writes this agreement. The agreement requires payment of the standard 10% royalty, to be made in a single payment at the expiration of the agreement. The license is for a maximum period of one year from the date of issuance.
• The University also may issue a “Limited Non-Exclusive License” to companies that manufacture products containing names, wordmarks, and logos of the University supplied exclusively to the University and not for resale. The Miami University licensing manager writes this agreement. Items produced under the Limited Agreement and sold to the University for its use are exempt from payment of royalties. The Limited License expressly prohibits the licensee from producing products containing University marks for sale to any customer other than the University, or for sale to the University when such items are intended for resale. Where the Licensee desires to conduct such activity, they shall enter into a standard License Agreement with Miami University through LRG, which agreement provides for both royalty-bearing and exempt sales of licensed products depending upon the purchaser and the intended use. The signing of the standard License Agreement by any licensee shall supersede and replace the Limited Agreement, and render this agreement immediately terminated.
• Registered marks of Miami University may not be used for any commercial purpose, including advertising, without the approval of the University. Generally, approval will only be granted for use of the marks in conjunction with the sale of licensed products. In no case may the marks of the University be used by a commercial entity for any purpose without prior written permission. This restriction applies to all applications in print or electronic media.
• University service uniforms may not be used for any commercial purpose, or resold for personal gain.
• Current registered wordmarks of the University available for use by licensees include: “Miami,” “Miami University,” “Miami University RedHawks,” “Miami RedHawks,” “RedHawks,” and “Love and Honor.”
• Registered logos of the University available for use by licensees include: the distinctive “Beveled-M”, the Miami seal with rope edge, the Miami seal with scalloped edge, the Hawk head on top of “Miami RedHawks” text, the Hawk head alone, and the Hawk head with “Beveled-M”.
• The Miami University Bookstore has exclusive rights to reproduce and sell any items with the Cradle of Coaches logo, and the licensing fee is 15% for use of said logo.
• Registered wordmarks of the University previously used but for which our permission to use has been withdrawn effective Oct. 31, 1996, include: “Miami University Redskins” and “Miami Redskins.” The University no longer permits the use of “Redskins” in association with the University.
• Registered logos of the University previously used but for which our permission to use has been withdrawn include: the lantern hanging in an arch, the Indian Head, the RedHawk standing in an arch with wings spread along with the words “Miami University RedHawks,” the RedHawk with landing wings spread, the RedHawk head, and a youthful RedHawk with a smile, standing with wings spread over a banner reading “RedHawks.”
• The Miami University Bookstore has exclusive rights to reproduce and sell one item per year in each category that we have registered the Indian Head with Block M logo, and the licensing fee is 15% for use of said logo.
• The official Miami sports nickname is the RedHawks (capital R, small e-d, capital H, small a-w-k-s, all one word). Depending upon the graphic, it may also be used all caps, but must be used in the plural form. The nickname can be used by itself, with “Miami,” or with “Miami University.” RedHawks should not be used in conjunction with the Indian Head, Indian Head with Block M, or University seal; nor will the University permit the nickname to be used with any unofficial bird or hawk renditions. RedHawk logos may not be altered in any way.
• The University’s official colors are red (PMS 186) and white. However, the University generally does not restrict color usage with its wordmarks and logos, leaving the selection up to the producer and reseller. All colors should be shown on the artwork approval request, and are subject to University approval.
• Compliance with the University’s licensing program is necessary to protect the name, wordmarks, and logos of Miami University, and to protect the integrity of the program and the interests of the licensees who support the program. Ensuring compliance is a shared responsibility of Miami and LRG.
• University and LRG representatives will shop local and regional retailers on a regular basis to ensure that products bearing our registered service marks are licensed, and that proper approvals have been solicited for merchandise offered. In addition, University representatives will monitor on-campus sales and watch for new merchandise that appears on campus or within the community to ensure it is licensed. Finally, LRG will conduct compliance audits of licensees on a recurring basis in accordance with the licensing agreement to ensure that royalties due on products sold are being properly paid to the University through LRG.
• The production, sale or other distribution for commercial purposes of unlicensed products containing Miami University marks violates the University’s license agreement, and may violate state, federal, civil and criminal laws. In addition to the producer, a retailer and/or seller may be held equally liable for infringement. Upon the discovery of unapproved or unlicensed merchandise, the seller will be requested to remove products from sale until the source can be determined, the merchandise licensed, the design approved, and past royalties due determined and collected. Where University officials deem the merchandise unacceptable, the seller will be requested to turn over the merchandise to the University for destruction.
• Should voluntary compliance fail, the University will take whatever legal steps necessary to protect the use of its marks and collect royalties due. Actions contemplated may include, but not be limited to, cancellation of a license agreement, seizing and destroying counterfeit goods, an injunction against further production and sale, and recovering damages, expenses, attorney’s fees, and other costs.

Trademark Licensing

• The Department of University Communications and Marketing at Miami University regulates the commercial use of the university’s name and all identifying marks, both on and off campus, to ensure the protection of Miami’s excellent reputation and maintain high standards of use. Campus departments, student organizations and external groups frequently purchase merchandise that use university symbols, logos, and marks. These items range from lapel pins, backpacks, photo frames, and mugs to types of clothing and even high-end merchandise for special occasions. Since each of these is an extension of the university’s image, and just as there are standards for print material, there are standards for items available for retail sale or for use by organizations.
• Only campus departments and student organizations that are officially recognized by or are part of the university are allowed to use Miami logos, symbols and marks (trademarks) in conjunction with their name, and in doing so, must have approval prior to use.
• Miami products can be made only by licensees who are under contract with LRG, the university’s licensing agency. The licensing program through LRG protects Miami’s name and image and is critical to ensure the appropriate visibility of the university, and earned licensing fees benefit student scholarships.
• All manufacturers of products bearing the trademarks of Miami University must enter into a nonexclusive Trademark License Agreement with the university. The Licensing Resource Group (LRG) administers Miami’s Licensing Program. Information and an application for licensing are available at the LRG website, http://www.lrgusa.com. Once a licensing agreement has been signed, camera-ready artwork and electronic files of university and intercollegiate athletics trademarks are submitted for approval by the Office of University Trademarks and Licensing.
• All items for resale/retail and merchandise-type items that are imprinted with a Miami University trademark require licensing, or working with a licensed vendor. Print material that is not for resale such as stationery, note cards, banners, ads or brochures do not require licensing, although a separate approval process is required for any use of marks or logos in those items (that process is managed through University Communications and Marketing or IT Print Services). The symbols and trademarks included as part of Miami’s licensing program include the name of the university, the university seal, the intercollegiate athletics logos and wordmarks, including “RedHawks,” and all other identifying marks of the university. This also includes the athletics logos of the Hamilton and Middletown campuses. Licensing is required regardless of whether the material is produced for resale or for use by units of the university.
• Trademark infringement is a violation of the exclusive rights attaching to a trademark without the authorization of the trademark owner or any licensees (provided that such authorization was within the scope of the license). Infringement may occur when one party, the “infringer”, uses a trademark which is identical or confusingly similar to a trademark owned by another party, in relation to products or services which are identical or similar to the products or services which the registration covers. An owner of a trademark may commence legal proceedings against a party that infringes its registration.
• Departments and student organizations are encouraged to contact the Manager of University Trademarks and Licensing if they wish to use a slogan, or any graphic elements from a logo that have the potential to be trademarked already. The Manager of University Trademarks and Licensing will assist with the investigation of whether your slogan or logo could be infringing on another entity’s trademarks.
• Spirit-wear merchandise available in retail outlets – and athletics/spirit material such as game schedules, buttons, or posters used by Intercollegiate Athletics – may feature creative variations of the beveled-M. It may, for example, appear overprinted, juxtaposed with other graphic elements, or other altered form based on competitive, national fashion trends. Such uses are approved on a case-by-case basis for licensed vendors and manufacturers at the retail level ONLY, and not for official university, student or academic publications or material.
• Miami reserves the right to request changes or disallow designs that 1) do not adhere to standards, 2) that may conflict with current symbols or marks, 3) that might be seen as offensive or in poor taste, and 4) do not reflect a level of quality and design appropriate for Miami. Note that sometimes there is no firm standard and a design falls into a ‘gray area’; however, Miami again must reserve the right to request changes and will work with areas to address any concerns or recommend an alternative.
• Independently created logos for official Miami departments, divisions, or offices, including student organizations that are officially financed as a department or office within student affairs, are not permitted, although certain symbols used nationally for certification purposes may be used to establish such affiliation if used separately from Miami marks. The Miami logo must be prominent and aligned visually with official department/area/division names. All areas should follow the guidelines in this manual for print material to ensure approval.
• The name, seal, and most recognized logos associated with Miami University are registered with the State of Ohio or the U.S. Government as service marks or trademarks, and are the exclusive property of the University. Reproduction of these marks for resale or other commercial purposes must have University authorization. The University is responsible for protecting these service marks and licensing commercial use of the marks.
• Any person, organization, or corporation manufacturing a product or providing a service bearing or containing any of the marks of the University, or applying the marks to merchandise manufactured by others, must, prior to the use of such marks, enter into a license agreement with the University. The standard license agreement is a royalty-bearing agreement, providing for a payment to the University of 10% of the wholesale price of the completed merchandise, unless an exemption is granted as indicated below. Royalties are paid quarterly per the terms of the agreement, and funds raised are used to provide undergraduate scholarships through the Office of Student Financial Assistance and the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. Limited licensing agreements are available for one-time production, or for production of items provided directly to the University for internal use and not for resale.
• Any company that manufactures products containing the registered names and logos of the University, affixes the marks on merchandise manufactured by others, must be licensed. Individuals or companies that do neither of the above, but simply resell merchandise produced by others, do not need to be licensed, but must purchase merchandise bearing University marks from manufacturers or producers who are licensed.
• All use of Miami names, wordmarks and symbols/logos on merchandise or items intended for retail/resale MUST use a copyright or TM designation.
• Under certain conditions, the University grants exemptions from the payment of royalties for merchandise bearing University marks. These conditions include: 1. Non-commercial in-house use - University departments and registered student organizations (including fraternities and sororities) may use service marks on posters, signs, banners, etc. dealing with on-campus activities of the organization, provided such use reflects positively on the University, and logos are reproduced accurately. Such use does not require licensing, royalty payment, prior approval, or artwork submission; however, the University licensing manager may require removal of University marks if the usage is deemed inappropriate. This non-commercial exemption is extended to party or event favors/souvenirs for student organizations if all of the following conditions are met: the item is a favor for a dated party or event sponsored by the organization; the item will be given to or sold at cost to members/guests by the organization; the only use of University marks is “Miami” or “Miami University” as a location designation on the chest print or similar location. If any one of the above conditions are not met, the non­commercial exemption does not apply, artwork approval is required, and royalty is due unless an exemption is applied for and granted as a student organization fundraiser, below.
• Registered student organizations may sell or give away products (such as t-shirts) bearing service marks of the University combined with the names and logos of their organization or activity without payment of royalties if such merchandise relates directly to an on-campus activity sponsored by that organization. Examples of such projects or events include: Homecoming weekend, Greek week, Kidsfest, etc. The merchandise must be purchased from a licensed manufacturer/vendor and is subject to approval.
• Student organization exemptions will not be granted for merchandise with a general theme or for university-wide events/activities and containing University marks that compete for sales with licensed, royalty-bearing merchandise offered by local or campus retailers. Such merchandise may be produced by licensees and sold by student organizations; however, royalties are due the University per the licensing agreement.
• If any one of the above conditions are not met, the non-commercial exemption does not apply, and artwork approval is required.
• Where the University desires to permit a producer to use University marks for commercial purposes for a special event or other short-term need, a “Short-Term Non-exclusive License” may be issued. The Miami University licensing manager writes this agreement. The agreement requires payment of the standard 10% royalty, to be made in a single payment at the expiration of the agreement. The license is for a maximum period of one year from the date of issuance.
• The University also may issue a “Limited Non-Exclusive License” to companies that manufacture products containing names, wordmarks, and logos of the University supplied exclusively to the University and not for resale. The Miami University licensing manager writes this agreement. Items produced under the Limited Agreement and sold to the University for its use are exempt from payment of royalties. The Limited License expressly prohibits the licensee from producing products containing University marks for sale to any customer other than the University, or for sale to the University when such items are intended for resale. Where the Licensee desires to conduct such activity, they shall enter into a standard License Agreement with Miami University through LRG, which agreement provides for both royalty-bearing and exempt sales of licensed products depending upon the purchaser and the intended use. The signing of the standard License Agreement by any licensee shall supersede and replace the Limited Agreement, and render this agreement immediately terminated.
• Registered marks of Miami University may not be used for any commercial purpose, including advertising, without the approval of the University. Generally, approval will only be granted for use of the marks in conjunction with the sale of licensed products. In no case may the marks of the University be used by a commercial entity for any purpose without prior written permission. This restriction applies to all applications in print or electronic media.
• University service uniforms may not be used for any commercial purpose, or resold for personal gain.
• Current registered wordmarks of the University available for use by licensees include: “Miami,” “Miami University,” “Miami University RedHawks,” “Miami RedHawks,” “RedHawks,” and “Love and Honor.”
• Registered logos of the University available for use by licensees include: the distinctive “Beveled-M”, the Miami seal with rope edge, the Miami seal with scalloped edge, the Hawk head on top of “Miami RedHawks” text, the Hawk head alone, and the Hawk head with “Beveled-M”.
• The Miami University Bookstore has exclusive rights to reproduce and sell any items with the Cradle of Coaches logo, and the licensing fee is 15% for use of said logo.
• Registered wordmarks of the University previously used but for which our permission to use has been withdrawn effective Oct. 31, 1996, include: “Miami University Redskins” and “Miami Redskins.” The University no longer permits the use of “Redskins” in association with the University.
• Registered logos of the University previously used but for which our permission to use has been withdrawn include: the lantern hanging in an arch, the Indian Head, the RedHawk standing in an arch with wings spread along with the words “Miami University RedHawks,” the RedHawk with landing wings spread, the RedHawk head, and a youthful RedHawk with a smile, standing with wings spread over a banner reading “RedHawks.”
• The Miami University Bookstore has exclusive rights to reproduce and sell one item per year in each category that we have registered the Indian Head with Block M logo, and the licensing fee is 15% for use of said logo.
• The official Miami sports nickname is the RedHawks (capital R, small e-d, capital H, small a-w-k-s, all one word). Depending upon the graphic, it may also be used all caps, but must be used in the plural form. The nickname can be used by itself, with “Miami,” or with “Miami University.” RedHawks should not be used in conjunction with the Indian Head, Indian Head with Block M, or University seal; nor will the University permit the nickname to be used with any unofficial bird or hawk renditions. RedHawk logos may not be altered in any way.
• The University’s official colors are red (PMS 186) and white. However, the University generally does not restrict color usage with its wordmarks and logos, leaving the selection up to the producer and reseller. All colors should be shown on the artwork approval request, and are subject to University approval.
• Compliance with the University’s licensing program is necessary to protect the name, wordmarks, and logos of Miami University, and to protect the integrity of the program and the interests of the licensees who support the program. Ensuring compliance is a shared responsibility of Miami and LRG.
• University and LRG representatives will shop local and regional retailers on a regular basis to ensure that products bearing our registered service marks are licensed, and that proper approvals have been solicited for merchandise offered. In addition, University representatives will monitor on-campus sales and watch for new merchandise that appears on campus or within the community to ensure it is licensed. Finally, LRG will conduct compliance audits of licensees on a recurring basis in accordance with the licensing agreement to ensure that royalties due on products sold are being properly paid to the University through LRG.
• The production, sale or other distribution for commercial purposes of unlicensed products containing Miami University marks violates the University’s license agreement, and may violate state, federal, civil and criminal laws. In addition to the producer, a retailer and/or seller may be held equally liable for infringement. Upon the discovery of unapproved or unlicensed merchandise, the seller will be requested to remove products from sale until the source can be determined, the merchandise licensed, the design approved, and past royalties due determined and collected. Where University officials deem the merchandise unacceptable, the seller will be requested to turn over the merchandise to the University for destruction.
• Should voluntary compliance fail, the University will take whatever legal steps necessary to protect the use of its marks and collect royalties due. Actions contemplated may include, but not be limited to, cancellation of a license agreement, seizing and destroying counterfeit goods, an injunction against further production and sale, and recovering damages, expenses, attorney’s fees, and other costs.

Student Organization Guidelines

• Only campus departments and student organizations that are officially recognized by or are part of the university are allowed to use Miami logos, symbols and marks (trademarks) in conjunction with their name, and in doing so, must have approval prior to use.
• Student organizations and sports clubs often seek to use the name and/or logos of the University or affiliated organizations on various types of merchandise, for use by the group, as favors/souvenirs for their members, or for fundraising activities. While most of this usage is exempt from the payment of royalties, licensing policies require that: • The merchandise be produced only by manufacturers or suppliers licensed through the University • The manufacturer or producer (licensee) must either pay the royalty or seek a specific royalty exemption on each item from the university licensing manager • Artwork must be approved by the licensing manager prior to production
• Use of the beveled-M logo requires appropriate usage as defined for the beveled-M in this manual.
• Student organizations and sports clubs may use the “RedHawk” name for on-campus, registered and approved events. Otherwise, the RedHawk logo is used to officially designate ICA-affiliated sports and any other use of the “RedHawk” logo (except for the club sports exception as indicated below) requires prior approval from the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics (ICA). Student organizations that are not affiliated with ICA may not use “RedHawk” in their organization name and are encouraged to use “Miami” instead.
• Recognized club sport teams are required to use the either the Club Sports M or Club Sports RedHawk logos (as to the right) on any item bearing the name of Miami University or using the M logo. In extenuating circumstances, jerseys may be exempt from this policy but will be handled on a case-by-case basis; Jerseys that do not include the name of the sport will not require the logo. The approved Miami Club Sports Logo must appear on all print advertising, web­site, and apparel designs.
• While the University does not wish to interfere with creative student activities, the University is committed to protecting its name, wordmarks, and logos, ensuring that the marks are correctly displayed and that they do not reflect unfavorably on the University in the context presented. University marks may not be used to promote use of alcohol, tobacco, controlled substances, sexually oriented products, religious products, bathroom articles, or games of chance. The University is also committed to protecting the integrity of the licensing program and licensees who support it, and must expect compliance with the licensing policy from all individuals and organizations. All printed and electronic materials must be produced in good taste and reflect socially acceptable standards. Printed materials that use any university trademark (not limited to but including t-shirts, promotional flyers, and websites) must be approved prior to distribution and be printed by a licensed vendor. Use of logos or wording regarding “Redskins” is prohibited. Promotion of the use of alcohol or tobacco on printed materials is prohibited. Sponsorship or advertising associated with vendors that directly sell alcohol or tobacco is also prohibited.
• All print advertising, website and apparel designs must be approved by the Director of Club Sports, 108 Rec Center, (513) 529-8179, arnosmp@muohio.edu. The director of club sports may need to obtain further approval by the university licensing manager.
• A copy of the Student Organization Licensing Request Form is available at MiamiOH.edu/trademark

Web Guidelines

• Miami’s Office of University Communications and Marketing (UCM) oversees Miami’s official web presence, driven by the Cascade Server Content Management System (CMS). Oversight includes CMS functionality, all of the system assets, and user access.
• In collaboration with UCM, Miami’s IT Services hosts the CMS web content. As host, IT is responsible for all aspects of web server management, including technology, network connectivity, and security. UCM partners with Hannon Hill (Cascade’s creator) for system support and upgrades.
• UCM assumes responsibility for web page template design and maintenance, establishing goals and standards for graphics, photography, and content. Content requirements must be followed to ensure that standards of quality information, current information, consistency, usability, and branding are being met. Beyond legal ramifications, oversight of content is necessary in order to ensure that outdated or misleading information does not negatively affect a visitor’s perception of Miami University.
• UCM also works collaboratively to establish web strategy and priorities based on University goals, directs the research, analysis, and advancement of new media technologies, and trains web publishers to work in the CMS.
• Departmental/area website content is the responsibility of the head of that department or area and ultimately, the division head. Established website policies, as defined in the next section, must be followed.
• Branded CMS templates provided by UCM are used for all official Miami websites. The branded template options facilitate web development by ensuring consistent, simplified navigation, providing instant identification as a Miami website (with the correct use of the Miami logo and official colors), enhancing search capabilities across all University sites, and establishing standard footers with required links and legal elements.
• Website content should meet accessibility standards as outlined in Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 (http://www.w3.org/TR/ WCAG20/). These standards are part of the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI), a working group of World Wide Web Consortium. Many elements built into the CMS facilitate this accessibility, including heading styles, ALT tags for image description, and color contrast for color-blindness. However, proper application remains the responsibility of the individual website owners, including correct use of heading styles and the inclusion of alternate text for all images, tables, and infographics that the CMS does not already require. In addition, all videos accessed from a site (both embedded and those leading to YouTube.com) must be accurately closed-captioned. For more information see Website Accessibility (http://miamioh.edu/ucm/web/ reference/accessibility/).
• Web pages must be regarded in the same light as publications and written communication. As such, all pages will abide by the federal copyright laws and applicable laws and University policies relating to written expression. All website content must be consistent with policy regarding Miami’s Responsible Use of Computing Resources at Miami University.
• Any collection of personal information and/or identifiers via a webform, survey, or other feedback tool remains in compliance with Miami’s Web Privacy Policy (http://miamioh.edu/about-miami/pubs-policies/privacy-statement/index.html).
• Department heads are responsible for the content of departmental pages. Departmental pages should not attempt to duplicate official sites or information but should link readers to the correct page, so that information is easily updated at a single site.
• WordPress is recommended for the development of websites for student organizations, as UCM cannot support those websites within the Cascade Server CMS. This allows student organizations to use independent designs and logos that do not conform to Miami’s branding standards and guidelines. It should be noted, however, that if a student organization uses any official Miami marks, they must adhere to all standards and guidelines.
• Websites should be reviewed as needed within a minimum period of six months so that outdated information is removed or updated, and fresh content is in place.
• All official pages should follow the University’s Style Guide & Identification Standards Manual to maintain consistency in the use of punctuation, capitalization, grammar, professional presentation, titles, the University seal, and logo. Questions should be addressed to UCM.
• The official University colors are red (PMS 186) and white. These should be the most prominent colors across all pages. Secondary colors can be used as accents and to emphasize pieces of content.
• The official University web fonts are Georgia, for use in headings, and Helvetica, for body copy. Division, department, office, and organization wordmarks use the Bembo font.
• College, school, department, and unit sites should use official colors and fonts in headers, footers, banners, and other page regions to maintain consistency with the Miami homepage and ensure ease of navigation for visitors.
• The Miami University logo should be included in the header on every page of every site. It should always link to the Miami University homepage, MiamiOH.edu. It should appear above any other wordmark, imagetype, or logo on the page. The version and placement of the logo must conform with the University Brand Standards Guide.
• Subsites of Miami University should include their wordmark below the Miami University logo. Miami wordmarks use the Bembo small caps font for division names and the Bembo italic font for naming departments, offices, organizations, programs etc. In some special cases the wordmark can contain alternative fonts that compliment the brand. Contact UCM for wordmark approval prior to use.
• For more details on Miami University’s web colors, fonts, and styles, see the Design Standards Guide (http://miamioh.edu/ucm/web/reference/ design-standards-guide/).
• Miami reserves the right to remove web editing/publishing access to groups or individuals who do not follow the guidelines or violate acceptable use policies as defined. Miami also reserves the right to remove content that is outdated, incorrect, or violates standards.

Accessibility Guidelines

• Website content should meet accessibility standards as outlined in Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 (http://www.w3.org/TR/ WCAG20/). These standards are part of the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI), a working group of World Wide Web Consortium. Many elements built into the CMS facilitate this accessibility, including heading styles, ALT tags for image description, and color contrast for color-blindness. However, proper application remains the responsibility of the individual website owners, including correct use of heading styles and the inclusion of alternate text for all images, tables, and infographics that the CMS does not already require. In addition, all videos accessed from a site (both embedded and those leading to YouTube.com) must be accurately closed-captioned. For more information see Website Accessibility (http://miamioh.edu/ucm/web/ reference/accessibility/).

Additional Properties

Employees History