The Department of University Relations is responsible for protecting, controlling, and enforcing the use of University of Nebraska Kearney indices used on products, in promotions, and in advertising.
The traditions and spirit shared by the students, alumni, and friends of the University have created a demand for products that display the marks, symbols, and insignia that are associated with the University of Nebraska Kearney. Responding to this demand and strongly believing in the need to positively promote and protect its trademark rights, The University of Nebraska Kearney has created a Trademark Licensing Program. Through this program, UNK protects and enhances its reputation by assuring that its trademarks appear only on quality products with minimal liabilities to both the University of Nebraska Kearney and purchasers of these products.
Contact Information:
Randy Mattely
Director/Publication Design and Creative Services
University of Nebraska Kearney
1910 University Drive
Kearney, NE 68849
(308)865-8132
(308)865-8100
1. What is the difference between the old loperhead and the new loperhead?
The new loperhead holds several subtle differences which enhance its overall look and usability on both merchandise and printed materials. The focal point of the loperhead is centered around the eye. Thus, secondary parts have been altered to draw the attention to this feature. You will notice that the ear has been filled in and the outer border of the trademark has been thickened. A thicker line prevents the logo from holding a vibration which makes it more visible and useful when used for smaller projects. The white voids in the neck have been filled in to streamline the logo and draw attention to the facial features. The angles of the horns have been slightly adjusted and the angle of the logo itself, has taken on a straight forwards look to encourage consistency in the direction it is heading.
New Loperhead Old Loperhead
3. Can I use any printer to reproduce UNK marks?
The University of Nebraska Kearney reviews printers and manufactures in order to qualify these companies to reproduce UNK’s logos/marks. In addition, the companies, also known as licensees, are reviewed for their quality and insure UNK against any harm that may arise out of UNK’s name being associated on their merchandise. These licensees also have access to UNK’s current logos/marks and are familiar with the policies on how to use UNK’s marks appropriately. Please visit our licensee’s page for a list of approved licensees by clicking HERE.
6. Can I use any color on UNK’s logos or marks?
The official school logos have to be used in official school colors. There are certain marks that can be done in fashion colors. UNK’s approved licensees can assist you with these requests. Please visit our licensee’s page for a list of approved licensees by clicking HERE.
7. How can I become a University of Nebraska Kearney licensee?
Any prospective manufacturer who wishes to obtain a license to officially produce UNK merchandise must submit a license application through Strategic Marketing Affiliates (SMA). SMA is the licensing representative for the University of Nebraska Kearney. As the University's representative, SMA is responsible for administering the licensing programs, including processing applications, collecting royalties, enforcing trademarks and pursuing new market opportunities for UNK. If you are interested in participating as a UNK Licensee please contact SMA @ (317)829.5690 or by mail at Strategic Marketing Affiliates, 201 South Capitol Ste. 520, Indianapolis, IN 46225. Or click HERE to fill out a licensee application.
8. What qualifies as a UNK trademark?
Any mark, logo, symbol, nickname, letter(s), word or derivative that can be associated with the University of Nebraska Kearney qualifies as a trademark.
9. Do we even need a licensing program?
The traditions and spirit shared by the students, alumni and friends of the University have created a demand for products that display the marks, symbols and insignia that are associated with the University of Nebraska Kearney. In response to this demand and strongly believing in the need to promote and protect its trademark rights, UNK has created a collegiate licensing program. Through this program, UNK protects and enhances its reputation by assuring that its trademarks appear only on quality products with minimal liabilities to both the University and consumers of UNK products.
Logo Usage and Style Guide
As you would understand, UNK has a valuable ownership interest in its trademark properties (all rights, title and interest in its name, logos, slogans, colors, mascots and other proprietary rights), as it promotes them through extensive marketing and licensing programs associated with the University and its athletic teams. By using the trademarks, UNK has created an identity in which consumers recognize the quality of the goods and services coming from the University.
When people look at the University of Nebraska Kearney logos, they don't just see the logo. They see UNK’s rich traditions, faith, instructors, athletic events and places. They remember their UNK experience. To a degree, the marks and logos speak on UNK’s behalf before anyone says a word. These trademark properties represent who we are; they are a visual representation of Nebraska Kearney.
Therefore, it is vital to build and maintain a strong visual identity. To accomplish that, the marks and logos must be used in a consistent manner. They must appear the same in every instance. They must have the proper color of blue and gold, white and black. They must also be used in their proper proportions, and they must be used in an appropriate context.
This website establishes the guidelines for use of the university's logos and marks, such as wordmarks and spirit marks. We appreciate your willingness to support, protect and advance the University of Nebraska Kearney.
Collegiate Licensing (Students)
A trademark is simply a symbol or word used by a manufacturer or organization to identify its goods or services and distinguishes them from its competitors. A trademark conveys to consumers the desirability of the product bearing the mark and helps to promote the goods it is identified with.
UNK’s visual identity distills the qualities that make the University unique, and it conveys this "brand" to the world. The UNK promise of academic excellence and standards of achievement come alive in a very real and meaningful way for thousands of people around the world when they see the University seal, the University of Nebraska Kearney wordmark, and other UNK "marks."
Consistency in the way these icons are presented is important for a thriving institution that is growing in both quality and stature. A strong and consistent visual identity helps shape the way key constituents view UNK, both now and in the future.
Process & Procedures
Student organizations desiring to sell or distribute t-shirts or other products on campus must obtain approval from the Director of Publications/Design and Creative Services. Additional approvals may be required as outlined below. Designs and messages on all products must be in good taste; student organizations may not sell or distribute any product that would embarrass the University in view of her constituencies or conflict with the aims of the University as a institution of higher learning. Permission to sell products may be given to student organizations that adhere to the following policy and complete the request form.
A. Licensing approval for the use of registered UNK marks on any product for sale or distribution by student organizations will be subject to the following restrictions and requirements:
2. Any screen-printing or embroidery work on the product must be produced or purchased from a company licensed with the University of Nebraska Kearney. A list of licensed screen printers and embroiderers is available by HERE.
3. The product must have the name (or letters) of the student organization prominently displayed on the product.
4. Distribution of the product is generally restricted to sell only to their members and dates for a particular function. Based on the event and the campus-wide impact, exceptions can be made for the sponsors of events such as Homecoming, Blue Gold Welcome Week, tournaments, etc.
5. Use of UNK marks on the products must be confined to the standard registered marks. Such marks can be incorporated into a custom design on the product with appropriate approval from the campus officials.
6. Design requirements must be met on all areas of the product.
7. No reference can be made, either directly or indirectly, to any individual athlete, athletic squad, athletic team, or athletic event that the University participates in as a competitive representative of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference under NCAA rules and regulations.
8. Compliance to University of Nebraska Kearney guidelines for Product/Art Approval will apply to all student organizations.
B. Designs containing non-UNK trademarks and phrases (Coke, “Just Do It,” cartoon characters, etc.) must have written permission from the copyright owner before the design will be approved.
D. Violators of the established policy will be subject to the following sanctions:
1. For unapproved, but approvable, product designs, a 10% fine on the cost of the product will be imposed. For example, if an organization prints 100 shirts at $6.00 each, the fine would be $60 (assuming the design would have been approved if submitted). Distribution of the product shall be stopped until the design is approved and the fine is paid. All fines will be deposited into the General Athletic Scholarship Fund.
2. For unapproved and unapprovable product designs, the organization will not be able to sell or distribute the product and must pay a 10% fine on the cost of the product. All fines will be deposited into the General Athletic Scholarship Fund. In addition, one or more of the following sanctions may be imposed:
a. If the product can be corrected (overprinted), the group may be allowed to distribute the product once a 10% fine is paid.
b. For design problems that cannot be corrected, the product will be collected and destroyed.
c. Additional fines and/or ban on future t-shirts and other products will be imposed.
Forms
Approved Licensees
Students and student groups are required to use Local and Restricted Licensees for the reproduction of UNK logos, marks and indicia on products that will used in advertisement, promotion and in resale (local licensees only).
Collegiate Licensing (Departments)
A trademark is simply a symbol or word used by a manufacturer or organization to identify its goods or services and distinguishes them from its competitors. A trademark conveys to consumers the desirability of the product bearing the mark and helps to promote the goods it is identified with.
UNK’s visual identity distills the qualities that make the University unique, and it conveys this "brand" to the world. The UNK promise of academic excellence and standards of achievement come alive in a very real and meaningful way for thousands of people around the world when they see the University seal, the University of Nebraska Kearney wordmark, and other UNK "marks."
Consistency in the way these icons are presented is important for a thriving institution that is growing in both quality and stature. A strong and consistent visual identity helps shape the way key constituents view UNK, both now and in the future.
Process & Procedures
University of Nebraska Kearney departments desiring to sell or distribute t-shirts or other products on or off campus must obtain written approval through Office of Trademark and Licensing (Collegiate Licensing Department). Additional approvals may be required as outlined below. Designs and messages on all products must be in good taste; departments may not sell or distribute any product that would embarrass the University in view of her constituencies or conflict with the private aims of the University as an institution of higher learning. Permission to sell products may be given to departments that adhere to the following policy and complete the request form.
A. Licensing approval for the use of registered UNK marks on any product for sale or distribution by UNK departments will be subject to the following restrictions and requirements:
2. Any screenprinting or embroidery work on the product must be produced or purchased from a company licensed with the University of Nebraska Kearney. A list of licensed screenprinters and embroiderers is available by clicking HERE.
3. The product must have the name (or letters) of the department prominently displayed on the product.
4. Distribution of the product is generally restricted to sell only to their departmental members.
5. Use of UNK marks on the products must be confined to the standard registered marks. Such marks cannot be incorporated into a co-branded design.
6. Design requirements must be met on all areas of the product.
7. No reference can be made, either directly or indirectly, to any individual athlete, athletic squad, athletic team, or athletic event that the University participates in as a competitive representative of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference under NCAA rules and regulations.
8. Compliance with University of Nebraska Kearney Guidelines for Product/Art Approval will apply to all departments.
B. Designs containing non-UNK trademarks and phrases (Coke, “Just Do It,” cartoon characters, etc.) must have written permission from the copyright owner before the design will be approved.
C. Violators of the established policy will be subject to the following sanctions:
1. For unapproved, but approvable, product designs, distribution of the product shall be stopped until the design is approved by Collegiate Licensing.
2. For unapproved and unapprovable product designs, the department will not be able to sell or distribute the product.
Approved Licensees
Departments are required to use Local and Restricted Licensees for the reproduction of UNK logos, marks and indicia on products that will used in advertisement, promotion and in resale (local licensees only).
Definition of a trademark
A trademark is simply a symbol or word used by a manufacturer or organization to identify its goods or services and distinguishes them from its competitors. A trademark conveys to consumers the desirability of the product bearing the mark and helps to promote the goods it is identified with.
More than a Label
The "Officially Licensed Collegiate Products" label not only signifies that the merchandise has passed the standards set forth by the University of Nebraska Kearney, it also signifies that a portion of the purchase is returned to the University. At UNK, revenues generated from the sale of licensed products help to provide for UNK athletes, making the "Officially Licensed Collegiate Products" label truly more than just a label.
UNK uses approved licensees for the reproduction of their logos, marks and indicia on products that will used, in promotions, and in advertising. Any individual, organization or company wishing to use the name or identifying marks of the University of Nebraska Kearney must obtain a license. This includes manufacturers or service providers who use UNK’s name or logo on products (including premiums for promotions) or in advertising. No products bearing the marks of the University of Nebraska Kearney are exempt from licensing. UNK’s Licensees are grouped into three categories:
Local Licensees
A Local Licensee can produce product with the University of Nebraska Kearney trademarks for both internal and external constituents. The product they produce can be used for resale.
Restricted Licensees
Restricted Licensees are able to produce product with the University of Nebraska Kearney trademarks for internal UNK use only. Products produced by these companies cannot be resold. If you are not an internal UNK department, please refer to the list of Local or Standard Licensees. If you are a UNK department, please refer to the list of Restricted licensees.
Standard Licensees
Standard Licensees can produce product with the University of Nebraska Kearney trademarks for external constituents. The product they produce are used for resale. Please refer the the standard licensee list.
How to Obtain a License
Any prospective manufacturer who wishes to obtain a license to officially produce University of Nebraska Kearney merchandise must submit a license application through Strategic Marketing Affiliates (SMA). SMA is the licensing representative for the University of Nebraska Kearney. As the University's representative, SMA is responsible for administering the licensing programs, including processing applications, collecting royalties, enforcing trademarks and pursuing new market opportunities for UNK. If you are interested in participating as a UNK Licensee please contact SMA @ (317)829.5690 or by mail at Strategic Marketing Affiliates, Pan American Plaza, 201 South Capitol Ste. 520, Indianapolis, IN 46225. For additional information please click HERE.
UNK Graphic Standards
This guide to the Graphic Standards Program represents all areas of the University including academic, athletic, and administrative and it has been formally approved by the Office of the Vice Chancellor. The guidelines are to be applied to all uses of the UNK mark, whether for advertising, signage, stationery, uniforms, vehicles, Web content or the countless other items that carry the UNK brand to the world.
UNK’s visual identity distills the qualities that make the University unique, and it conveys this "brand" to the world. The promise of academic excellence, athletic commitment, and development and growth of a caring community-these and other attributes of the University come alive in a very real and meaningful way for thousands of people around the world when they see the University seal, the UNK University wordmark, and other UNK "marks."
Consistency in the way these icons are presented is important for a thriving institution that is growing in both quality and stature. A strong and consistent visual identity helps shape the way key constituents view UNK, both now and in the future.
UNK’s Graphic Standard Elements
The University of Nebraska Kearney Graphic Standards Program encompasses the University's emblems, names and logos including:
- The University seal
- UNK wordmarks
- Spirit marks-including UNK spirit wordmarks and the loperhead.
These marks may not be altered or changed in any way. These marks may not be incorporated into or combined with any other mark, symbol or graphic to create a new mark. Each mark must stand alone with sufficient space around the mark to clearly show that it is an individual mark.
These elements are registered with the Patent and Trademark Office of the United States and may only be used according to the guidelines contained within this guide or by expressed permission of The University of Nebraska Kearney. Specific descriptions of each element and its approved usage follow.
Athletic Department Guidelines
The University of Nebraska Kearney athletic identity elements-or "spirit" marks-are for use by the University's Athletic Department and University sanctioned sports, spirit and student organizations. UNK’s athletic spirit marks include the loperhead, cobranding sport marks, Institutional sport wordmark, etc.
The loperhead and the Institutional sport workmark are the preferred identity marks for UNK Athletics. All official athletic materials of any kind must have at least one of the preferred marks. Sport Specific marks may be used as secondary marks in addition to a preferred mark. UNK Blue & Gold are the official University colors. Other approved secondary colors can be obtained by clicking HERE.
While the spirit marks may be sized appropriately for the specific use, the proportions of their individual elements must not be altered. They must be displayed in designated official colors-either black and white or UNK Blue & Gold. Please note the designated PMS codes for coated and uncoated paper stocks on the Official Colors page. It must be reproduced from the official artwork available through the Publications Coordinator for the UNK campus.
Official Colors
UNK Blue: Pantone Matching Systems (PMS #294)
UNK Gold: Pantone Matching Systems (PMS #131)
Co-Branding
The University Graphic Standards Program is intended to encourage the consistent and coordinated use of the UNK name and visual identity elements. For departments and organizations that have their own visual identities, co-branding this mark with the University of Nebraska Kearney wordmark is recommended.
Co-branding effectively means, "Sharing the brand," and it can benefit all parties involved. The co-branded department or organization benefits by being associated with the University of Nebraska Kearney brand and the goodwill attached to it. The University benefits by being associated with the activities of departments and organizations that further the University's stated mission and objectives.
For University-affiliated departments and organizations, visual co-branding may be accomplished through the following configurations:
- The official University wordmark, beneath which appears the name of the administrative or academic department name in a complementary typeface.
- One or more of the official athletic or "spirit" marks, accompanied by the name of the University-sanctioned organization name.
- In brochures, newsletters and other printed materials, the University wordmark should appear on the outside cover to include (but not limited to) the mailing panel. The wordmark should be used in any University advertisement.
- On web pages, the University wordmark should be part of any template for any UNK administrative or academic web address, and the loper head or spirit wordmark should be part of any template for any UNK athletic web address.
Examples of co-branding are presented at right for guidance as to the positioning of the marks and accompanying names. All other co-branding configurations must be approved in advance of publication by the University's Office of Publications and Creative Services.
Co-Branding by Sport
The official spirit wordmark is available. A second line under the wordmark allows for cobranding by sport. The individual sport name is partof the official spirit mark and may not be altered in any way without permission form the Office of Publication and Creative Services. The spirit mark and spirit co-brands by sport are the only authorized marks for use on all Athletic materials including signage, uniforms, advertising, websites, or any other offcial Atheletic Department marketing item.
Co-branding the spirit wordmark is allowed for other areas of University life, but the mark must be created by the Office of Publications and Creative services to conform to specific design requirements. Use of the co-branded mark also must comply with the Graphic Standards Program.
The University of Nebraska Kearney Seal
This is the University's official identifying mark. Only the Univeristy of Nebraska Board of Regents, the University of Nebraska Kearney’s Chancellor’s Office or the UNK Director of Publications/ Design and Creative Services may authorize its use.
Documents displaying the University seal convey that they are officially sanctioned by the Board of Regents or Office of the Chancellor. As the official indicia of the University, the University seal may not be altered in any way. It is available for approved usage through the Office of Public Relations.
It is not to be used on departmental stationery, interior signage or advertising except as authorized by the Nebraska Board of Regents, the University of Nebraska Kearney’s Chancellor’s Office, or the UNK Director of Publications/ Design and Creative Services. The University seal may not be used on vehicles.
Exceptions to use of seal include jewelry, high-end commemorative gift items, and official academic or University related materials such as certificates, diplomas and select graduation-related items, including announcements and diploma frames. Exceptions must be approved through the Office of Publications/ Design and Creative Services.