Revised: April 25, 2023 | Effective: November 1, 2001
Date Policy Request To Pet:
April 25, 2023
Current Policy Title:
20.11 / Use of the University's Name, Seal, Logos or Marks
Revised Policy Title:
N/A
Last Revised Date Of Policy:
February 1, 2010
Initiating Authority:
Office of Tech Transfer and Commercialization / Strategic Communications
Summary Of Policy Or Policy Change:
This policy is being revised to reflect current practices surrounding the University's
Name, Seal, Logos or Marks. This policy has also been updated to conform with the
standard policy format used by the University.
Reason Or Need For Policy / Summary Of Changes Made To Existing Policy:
Prior to 2020, WSU maintained a "split portfolio" of its registered marks, with the
"academic marks" being owned by the University itself, while the "athletic marks"
were owned by ICAA. In August 2020, the University and Athletics made the decision
to merge these two portfolios into one single portfolio, maintained and managed by
the University. This portfolio merger also established the University's Trademark
and Branding Panel (the "Panel"), which is comprised of representatives from Athletics,
Strategic Communications, Industry and Defense Programs, the Office of Tech Transfer
and Commercialization, and the Office of General Counsel. The Panel exists to (1)
manage WSU's Trademark Portfolio; (2) provide strategic oversight of brand initiatives
with external parties; and (3) review university policies related to trademarks and
branding. Through the creation of the Panel, the University has updated its policies,
practices, and procedures for both internal and external use of the University's name,
logos, and trademarks. This updated policy reflects those existing policies, practices
and procedures and is necessary to ensure usage of University Marks that reflects
the University's history, mission, and values.
Applicable Laws Or Regulatory Or Policy Authority:
Other Relevant WSU Policies:
WSU Policy 3.04 / Commitment of Time, Conflict of Interest, Consulting and Other Employment
WSU Policy 11.06 / Naming of University Facilities
Visual Identity Standards Manual
The Following University Stakeholders Were Included In The Review And Approval Of
This Policy Draft / Revision:
- Office of Tech Transfer and Commercialization - Rob Gerlach
- Office of Strategic Communications - Shelly Coleman-Martins
- Industry and Defense Programs - Tracee Friess
- Intercollegiate Athletic Association - Kevin Saal, Scott Barnhart, Tami Cutler
- Office of General Counsel - Misha Jacob-Warren
Other Notes For Consideration:
This proposed policy reflects current practices surrounding the University's Name,
Seal, Logos or Marks.
Owner Of Policy Request For Questions:
Office of Tech Transfer and Commercialization - Rob Gerlach