Minnesota State

📋 3 Guidelines

🔗 Connections

Sector

Education

Region

Usa

Guideline Year

2018 2017 2016

Language

English

Tags

Institution

Official Websites

Brand Guidelines

2016

Brand Summary

Mission
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities [^1].
Core Values
  • Offering Quality and Value
  • Providing Access
  • Developing Talent
  • Serving Community
Target Audience
  • Current and future students of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds across Minnesota, including those seeking affordable, accessible, and high-value education [^2].
Personality Traits
  • Unified
  • Inclusive
  • Practical
  • Collaborative
  • Committed
Visual Identity Overview
  • The visual identity is minimalistic, modern, and bold, featuring a banner-shaped mark with a white eight-pointed star and a capital ‘M’, primarily using dark blue as the main brand color, supported by green and warm grey. The logo is used in both vertical and horizontal formats, with strict guidelines for color, size, and clear space, ensuring consistency and clarity across all applications [^3].

Categories

Brand Imagery
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC C: 090 M: 000 Y: 093 K: 000 C: 011 M: 013 Y: 016 K: 032 R: 000 R: 172 G: 159 B: 077 G: 163 B: 154 #009F4D #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white. The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Color Palette
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C
  • Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC
  • C: 090 M: 000 Y: 093 K: 000
  • C: 011 M: 013 Y: 016 K: 032
  • R: 000
  • R: 172
  • G: 159
  • B: 077
  • G: 163
  • B: 154
  • #009F4D
  • #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
Typography
  • Primary Electronic Document Font ## Calibri Regular # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Secondary Electronic Document Font ## Georgia ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Primary Font for Professionally Designed Pieces ### Circular STD # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Secondary Font (Didot Regular or Bold is acceptable) ## Didot Regular # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Minnesota State has selected a set of standard fonts for employee use on all internally produced presentations and correspondence. These are fonts that are already available to you through the Microsoft Office Suite. For electronic documents and screen-based presentations, Calibri is the primary font. Times New Roman has been selected for use with all printed correspondence.
  • For the production of print and digital professionally designed materials for distribution to the public, Circular is the primary font.
  • The minimum font size for the identifier is 9pt on print materials.
  • System affiliation identifier should be formatted in one of the Minnesota State fonts. See typography page.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
Logo Usage
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Tone And Messaging
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances people’s quality of life, and sustains prosperous communities.
  • We are Minnesota State. A system of outstanding colleges, universities, educators, and staff. We are deeply committed to greater educational success and access. We understand that higher education can be made practical for every student, from every culture, every part of the state, and every walk of life. We support each other, challenge each other, and promote each other. Knowing that, while we are strong individually, we are more powerful collectively. And we won’t rest until extraordinary education is a reality for everyone who aspires to do more for themselves, their families, their communities, and the state we all share.
  • Minnesota State provides the highest value, most affordable path to an extraordinary education, individual accomplishment, and community prosperity.
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities.
  • Our colleges and universities offer extraordinary and affordable educational opportunities provided by exceptional faculty who prepare students for success.
  • Our colleges and universities provide students of all backgrounds a broad range of programs to achieve their goals, from career and technical training to baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. This happens at 54 campuses and hundreds of businesses across the state and online.
  • Our colleges and universities develop life-long learning, employment skills, and capabilities that prepare graduates for life and careers.
  • Our colleges and universities collectively and positively impact our state’s economy by producing well-rounded graduates who are prepared to contribute to their communities.
Brand Values
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances people’s quality of life, and sustains prosperous communities.
  • We are Minnesota State. A system of outstanding colleges, universities, educators, and staff. We are deeply committed to greater educational success and access. We understand that higher education can be made practical for every student, from every culture, every part of the state, and every walk of life. We support each other, challenge each other, and promote each other. Knowing that, while we are strong individually, we are more powerful collectively. And we won’t rest until extraordinary education is a reality for everyone who aspires to do more for themselves, their families, their communities, and the state we all share.
  • Minnesota State provides the highest value, most affordable path to an extraordinary education, individual accomplishment, and community prosperity.
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities.
  • Offering Quality and Value: Our colleges and universities offer extraordinary and affordable educational opportunities provided by exceptional faculty who prepare students for success.
  • Providing Access: Our colleges and universities provide students of all backgrounds a broad range of programs to achieve their goals, from career and technical training to baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. This happens at 54 campuses and hundreds of businesses across the state and online.
  • Developing Talent: Our colleges and universities develop life-long learning, employment skills, and capabilities that prepare graduates for life and careers.
  • Serving Community: Our colleges and universities collectively and positively impact our state’s economy by producing well-rounded graduates who are prepared to contribute to their communities.
Visual Style
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C R: 000 G: 159 B: 077 #009F4D
  • Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC R: 172 G: 163 B: 154 #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Iconography
  • The logo mark icon can be used by itself on logo apparel and in select social media situations. Any other instances where the icon appears either partially or in its entirety need to be approved by the Marketing and Communications Office.
Layout And Composition
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white. The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
  • The college or university brand and the Minnesota State brand do not need to be side by side, especially when there is potential word duplication. To create a pleasing layout, use space and sizing of the Minnesota State logo to create visual separation.
  • The system affiliation identifier should be clearly readable from a distance. It should be located above any potential landscaping or snow lines that may obstruct the view.
Brand Architecture
  • The new Minnesota State identity is not to be abbreviated in any form at any time. For example, “Mn State,” “MinnState,” and “MnSCU” are unacceptable applications of the new “Minnesota State” brand, as they will dilute the identity.
  • While “Minnesota State Colleges and Universities” remains the legal name of the system, it should only be used in ceremonial documents with the express permission of the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office. Contracts use the full legal name on first reference, and after that, the organization is referred to as “Minnesota State.”
  • The preferred way to refer to the colleges and universities in writing is “the colleges and universities of Minnesota State.” If, for purposes of sentence structure, the preferred way isn’t an option, an acceptable alternative is “Minnesota State colleges and universities.” In addition, “Minnesota State” never takes a possessive form, as in “Minnesota State’s.”
  • When referring to the system office, the preferred designation is the “Minnesota State system office” (note the lower case “s” in system and “o” in office).
  • The Minnesota State identity system consists of a logo (vertical and horizontal), a logo with secondary signature, and a Board of Trustees Seal.
  • The primary logos (vertical and horizontal) are the main expression of the brand, and should be used as directed in this manual in system office and member college or university co-branded communications.
  • The logo with secondary signature (partners, collaborations, consortiums, divisions, or initiatives) should only be used in instances where the identifier or partnership has been approved by the Marketing and Communications Office.
  • The Board of Trustees Seal is the official seal of the Board of Trustees, and is only used by the Board of Trustees and by member colleges and universities for ceremonial documents.
  • A screened seal is used as a design element on stationery templates, but is not to be used beyond the approved templates.

2018

Brand Summary

Mission
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities [^1].
Core Values
  • Offering Quality and Value
  • Providing Access
  • Developing Talent
  • Serving Community
Target Audience
  • Current and future students of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds across Minnesota, including those seeking affordable, accessible, and high-value education [^2].
Personality Traits
  • Unified
  • Inclusive
  • Practical
  • Collaborative
  • Committed
Visual Identity Overview
  • The visual identity is minimalistic, modern, and bold, featuring a banner-shaped mark with a white eight-pointed star and a capital ‘M’, primarily using dark blue as the main brand color, supported by green and warm grey. The logo is used in both vertical and horizontal formats, with strict guidelines for color, size, and clear space, ensuring consistency and clarity across all applications [^3].

Categories

Brand Imagery
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC C: 090 M: 000 Y: 093 K: 000 C: 011 M: 013 Y: 016 K: 032 R: 000 R: 172 G: 159 B: 077 G: 163 B: 154 #009F4D #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white. The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Color Palette
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C
  • Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC
  • C: 090 M: 000 Y: 093 K: 000
  • C: 011 M: 013 Y: 016 K: 032
  • R: 000
  • R: 172
  • G: 159
  • B: 077
  • G: 163
  • B: 154
  • #009F4D
  • #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
Typography
  • Primary Electronic Document Font ## Calibri Regular # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Secondary Electronic Document Font ## Georgia ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Primary Font for Professionally Designed Pieces ### Circular STD # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Secondary Font (Didot Regular or Bold is acceptable) ## Didot Regular # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Minnesota State has selected a set of standard fonts for employee use on all internally produced presentations and correspondence. These are fonts that are already available to you through the Microsoft Office Suite. For electronic documents and screen-based presentations, Calibri is the primary font. Times New Roman has been selected for use with all printed correspondence.
  • For the production of print and digital professionally designed materials for distribution to the public, Circular is the primary font.
  • The minimum font size for the identifier is 9pt on print materials.
  • System affiliation identifier should be formatted in one of the Minnesota State fonts. See typography page.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
Logo Usage
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Tone And Messaging
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances people’s quality of life, and sustains prosperous communities.
  • We are Minnesota State. A system of outstanding colleges, universities, educators, and staff. We are deeply committed to greater educational success and access. We understand that higher education can be made practical for every student, from every culture, every part of the state, and every walk of life. We support each other, challenge each other, and promote each other. Knowing that, while we are strong individually, we are more powerful collectively. And we won’t rest until extraordinary education is a reality for everyone who aspires to do more for themselves, their families, their communities, and the state we all share.
  • Minnesota State provides the highest value, most affordable path to an extraordinary education, individual accomplishment, and community prosperity.
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities.
  • Our colleges and universities offer extraordinary and affordable educational opportunities provided by exceptional faculty who prepare students for success.
  • Our colleges and universities provide students of all backgrounds a broad range of programs to achieve their goals, from career and technical training to baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. This happens at 54 campuses and hundreds of businesses across the state and online.
  • Our colleges and universities develop life-long learning, employment skills, and capabilities that prepare graduates for life and careers.
  • Our colleges and universities collectively and positively impact our state’s economy by producing well-rounded graduates who are prepared to contribute to their communities.
Brand Values
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances people’s quality of life, and sustains prosperous communities.
  • We are Minnesota State. A system of outstanding colleges, universities, educators, and staff. We are deeply committed to greater educational success and access. We understand that higher education can be made practical for every student, from every culture, every part of the state, and every walk of life. We support each other, challenge each other, and promote each other. Knowing that, while we are strong individually, we are more powerful collectively. And we won’t rest until extraordinary education is a reality for everyone who aspires to do more for themselves, their families, their communities, and the state we all share.
  • Minnesota State provides the highest value, most affordable path to an extraordinary education, individual accomplishment, and community prosperity.
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities.
  • Offering Quality and Value: Our colleges and universities offer extraordinary and affordable educational opportunities provided by exceptional faculty who prepare students for success.
  • Providing Access: Our colleges and universities provide students of all backgrounds a broad range of programs to achieve their goals, from career and technical training to baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. This happens at 54 campuses and hundreds of businesses across the state and online.
  • Developing Talent: Our colleges and universities develop life-long learning, employment skills, and capabilities that prepare graduates for life and careers.
  • Serving Community: Our colleges and universities collectively and positively impact our state’s economy by producing well-rounded graduates who are prepared to contribute to their communities.
Visual Style
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C R: 000 G: 159 B: 077 #009F4D
  • Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC R: 172 G: 163 B: 154 #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Iconography
  • The logo mark icon can be used by itself on logo apparel and in select social media situations. Any other instances where the icon appears either partially or in its entirety need to be approved by the Marketing and Communications Office.
Layout And Composition
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white. The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
  • The college or university brand and the Minnesota State brand do not need to be side by side, especially when there is potential word duplication. To create a pleasing layout, use space and sizing of the Minnesota State logo to create visual separation.
  • The system affiliation identifier should be clearly readable from a distance. It should be located above any potential landscaping or snow lines that may obstruct the view.
Brand Architecture
  • The new Minnesota State identity is not to be abbreviated in any form at any time. For example, “Mn State,” “MinnState,” and “MnSCU” are unacceptable applications of the new “Minnesota State” brand, as they will dilute the identity.
  • While “Minnesota State Colleges and Universities” remains the legal name of the system, it should only be used in ceremonial documents with the express permission of the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office. Contracts use the full legal name on first reference, and after that, the organization is referred to as “Minnesota State.”
  • The preferred way to refer to the colleges and universities in writing is “the colleges and universities of Minnesota State.” If, for purposes of sentence structure, the preferred way isn’t an option, an acceptable alternative is “Minnesota State colleges and universities.” In addition, “Minnesota State” never takes a possessive form, as in “Minnesota State’s.”
  • When referring to the system office, the preferred designation is the “Minnesota State system office” (note the lower case “s” in system and “o” in office).
  • The Minnesota State identity system consists of a logo (vertical and horizontal), a logo with secondary signature, and a Board of Trustees Seal.
  • The primary logos (vertical and horizontal) are the main expression of the brand, and should be used as directed in this manual in system office and member college or university co-branded communications.
  • The logo with secondary signature (partners, collaborations, consortiums, divisions, or initiatives) should only be used in instances where the identifier or partnership has been approved by the Marketing and Communications Office.
  • The Board of Trustees Seal is the official seal of the Board of Trustees, and is only used by the Board of Trustees and by member colleges and universities for ceremonial documents.
  • A screened seal is used as a design element on stationery templates, but is not to be used beyond the approved templates.

2017

Brand Summary

Mission
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities [^1].
Core Values
  • Offering Quality and Value
  • Providing Access
  • Developing Talent
  • Serving Community
Target Audience
  • Current and future students of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds across Minnesota, including those seeking affordable, accessible, and high-value education [^2].
Personality Traits
  • Unified
  • Inclusive
  • Practical
  • Collaborative
  • Committed
Visual Identity Overview
  • The visual identity is minimalistic, modern, and bold, featuring a banner-shaped mark with a white eight-pointed star and a capital ‘M’, primarily using dark blue as the main brand color, supported by green and warm grey. The logo is used in both vertical and horizontal formats, with strict guidelines for color, size, and clear space, ensuring consistency and clarity across all applications [^3].

Categories

Brand Imagery
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC C: 090 M: 000 Y: 093 K: 000 C: 011 M: 013 Y: 016 K: 032 R: 000 R: 172 G: 159 B: 077 G: 163 B: 154 #009F4D #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white. The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Color Palette
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C
  • Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC
  • C: 090 M: 000 Y: 093 K: 000
  • C: 011 M: 013 Y: 016 K: 032
  • R: 000
  • R: 172
  • G: 159
  • B: 077
  • G: 163
  • B: 154
  • #009F4D
  • #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
Typography
  • Primary Electronic Document Font ## Calibri Regular # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Secondary Electronic Document Font ## Georgia ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Primary Font for Professionally Designed Pieces ### Circular STD # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Secondary Font (Didot Regular or Bold is acceptable) ## Didot Regular # ABCDEFDHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ abcdefdhijklmnop qrstuvwxyz 1234567890()/!?,.
  • Minnesota State has selected a set of standard fonts for employee use on all internally produced presentations and correspondence. These are fonts that are already available to you through the Microsoft Office Suite. For electronic documents and screen-based presentations, Calibri is the primary font. Times New Roman has been selected for use with all printed correspondence.
  • For the production of print and digital professionally designed materials for distribution to the public, Circular is the primary font.
  • The minimum font size for the identifier is 9pt on print materials.
  • System affiliation identifier should be formatted in one of the Minnesota State fonts. See typography page.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
Logo Usage
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Tone And Messaging
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances people’s quality of life, and sustains prosperous communities.
  • We are Minnesota State. A system of outstanding colleges, universities, educators, and staff. We are deeply committed to greater educational success and access. We understand that higher education can be made practical for every student, from every culture, every part of the state, and every walk of life. We support each other, challenge each other, and promote each other. Knowing that, while we are strong individually, we are more powerful collectively. And we won’t rest until extraordinary education is a reality for everyone who aspires to do more for themselves, their families, their communities, and the state we all share.
  • Minnesota State provides the highest value, most affordable path to an extraordinary education, individual accomplishment, and community prosperity.
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities.
  • Our colleges and universities offer extraordinary and affordable educational opportunities provided by exceptional faculty who prepare students for success.
  • Our colleges and universities provide students of all backgrounds a broad range of programs to achieve their goals, from career and technical training to baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. This happens at 54 campuses and hundreds of businesses across the state and online.
  • Our colleges and universities develop life-long learning, employment skills, and capabilities that prepare graduates for life and careers.
  • Our colleges and universities collectively and positively impact our state’s economy by producing well-rounded graduates who are prepared to contribute to their communities.
Brand Values
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances people’s quality of life, and sustains prosperous communities.
  • We are Minnesota State. A system of outstanding colleges, universities, educators, and staff. We are deeply committed to greater educational success and access. We understand that higher education can be made practical for every student, from every culture, every part of the state, and every walk of life. We support each other, challenge each other, and promote each other. Knowing that, while we are strong individually, we are more powerful collectively. And we won’t rest until extraordinary education is a reality for everyone who aspires to do more for themselves, their families, their communities, and the state we all share.
  • Minnesota State provides the highest value, most affordable path to an extraordinary education, individual accomplishment, and community prosperity.
  • Minnesota State is a system of colleges and universities united to provide an extraordinary education that is affordable, accessible, enhances quality of life, and ensures prosperous communities.
  • Offering Quality and Value: Our colleges and universities offer extraordinary and affordable educational opportunities provided by exceptional faculty who prepare students for success.
  • Providing Access: Our colleges and universities provide students of all backgrounds a broad range of programs to achieve their goals, from career and technical training to baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. This happens at 54 campuses and hundreds of businesses across the state and online.
  • Developing Talent: Our colleges and universities develop life-long learning, employment skills, and capabilities that prepare graduates for life and careers.
  • Serving Community: Our colleges and universities collectively and positively impact our state’s economy by producing well-rounded graduates who are prepared to contribute to their communities.
Visual Style
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • Dark Blue PANTONE® 2757C C: 100 M: 076 Y: 012 K: 070 R: 012 G: 035 B: 064 #0C2340
  • Light Green PANTONE® 7482C R: 000 G: 159 B: 077 #009F4D
  • Warm Grey PANTONE® Warm GreySC R: 172 G: 163 B: 154 #ACA39A
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white.
  • The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
Iconography
  • The logo mark icon can be used by itself on logo apparel and in select social media situations. Any other instances where the icon appears either partially or in its entirety need to be approved by the Marketing and Communications Office.
Layout And Composition
  • The logo must always be used as a provided file, and never typeset by the user, to ensure that the correct scale relationships and spacing are maintained.
  • Measure clear space by using the banner.
  • Primary Logo - Vertical: 1.75˝ minimum width
  • Primary Logo - Horizontal: 2˝ minimum width
  • The logo and the logo with secondary signature should never be reproduced under the preferred minimum width. In special circumstances where it may be necessary to reproduce the logo smaller than the preferred minimum, contact the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office for guidance and approval.
  • The primary brand color, Dark Blue, is the main expression of the brand. The logo should always be reproduced using this color, except when it is necessary to use black or white. The secondary brand colors are used in support of the primary brand color and should be used in a manner that gives the primary, Dark Blue, visual dominance.
  • Body copy should never be styled in green. It should be limited to subtitles, headers, and secondary lines.
  • When reproduced in color, the logo should appear in the primary brand color, Dark Blue, black, or all white for reverses on dark backgrounds.
  • Do not print or reproduce the Minnesota State logo in any other color than the approved blue, black, grey (35 percent screen of black minimum), or reversed out in white.
  • On the occasion that member institutions are printing or producing materials in one color other than black or blue, it is acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo. This results in the logo appearing as white against a colored background.
  • It is also acceptable to “reverse out” the Minnesota State logo in a photograph. Make certain the photo has enough contrast between the type and image so the Minnesota State logo is clearly visible.
  • The Minnesota State logo is the official mark of the institution and should be rendered accordingly with the utmost consistency and dignity. It should never be tweaked, stretched, or otherwise manipulated, but reproduced with consistency and integrity.
  • Do not substitute fonts in the elements.
  • Do not tilt or break apart any of the elements.
  • Do not reconfigure elements.
  • Do not change the color of elements.
  • Do not crop elements.
  • Do not change the shape or skew elements or replace the ribbon element with the Board of Trustees Seal.
  • The college or university brand and the Minnesota State brand do not need to be side by side, especially when there is potential word duplication. To create a pleasing layout, use space and sizing of the Minnesota State logo to create visual separation.
  • The system affiliation identifier should be clearly readable from a distance. It should be located above any potential landscaping or snow lines that may obstruct the view.
Brand Architecture
  • The new Minnesota State identity is not to be abbreviated in any form at any time. For example, “Mn State,” “MinnState,” and “MnSCU” are unacceptable applications of the new “Minnesota State” brand, as they will dilute the identity.
  • While “Minnesota State Colleges and Universities” remains the legal name of the system, it should only be used in ceremonial documents with the express permission of the Minnesota State Marketing and Communications Office. Contracts use the full legal name on first reference, and after that, the organization is referred to as “Minnesota State.”
  • The preferred way to refer to the colleges and universities in writing is “the colleges and universities of Minnesota State.” If, for purposes of sentence structure, the preferred way isn’t an option, an acceptable alternative is “Minnesota State colleges and universities.” In addition, “Minnesota State” never takes a possessive form, as in “Minnesota State’s.”
  • When referring to the system office, the preferred designation is the “Minnesota State system office” (note the lower case “s” in system and “o” in office).
  • The Minnesota State identity system consists of a logo (vertical and horizontal), a logo with secondary signature, and a Board of Trustees Seal.
  • The primary logos (vertical and horizontal) are the main expression of the brand, and should be used as directed in this manual in system office and member college or university co-branded communications.
  • The logo with secondary signature (partners, collaborations, consortiums, divisions, or initiatives) should only be used in instances where the identifier or partnership has been approved by the Marketing and Communications Office.
  • The Board of Trustees Seal is the official seal of the Board of Trustees, and is only used by the Board of Trustees and by member colleges and universities for ceremonial documents.
  • A screened seal is used as a design element on stationery templates, but is not to be used beyond the approved templates.
🐛 Report