Logo Policies
Policy on the Use of the University Seal and University and Athletic Logos
In the interest of providing a uniform image for the University, individual logotypes or seals may not be used by schools, departments, or other academic and administrative units of the University. Requests for exceptions to this policy should be made in writing to the Office of Publications and Printing Services.
There may be times when a logotype or design motif is developed for a special event or a continuing series of activities sponsored by a University unit. These must, however, have advance clearance from the Office of Publications, Printing, and Editorial Services. Such clearances are designed to ensure the quality of materials being used to avoid image problems.
Exceptions to the logotype policy will be made principally for units of the University that have a special mission. The exceptions will be granted only after approval of written justification. This policy does not apply to the logos of student organizations.
University Seal
The University seal is the official identification of West Chester University. The
seal is used on official ceremonial and academic documents such as certificates and
commencement or dedication materials.
University Logo
The logo, which consists of a three-dimensional type font using West Chester University's acronym, WCU, sitting on a "base" with the University's full name, was adopted in May 2013. The solid, chiseled letters are a representation of the quality, excellence, and substance of the educational experience students receive at West Chester University. The base, which consists of strong parallel lines and the school's name, symbolizes the sound foundation of the University itself and its enduring tradition as an educational institution. The logo should not be altered or modified in any way, and it should not be blended with other designs, such as old logos, the University seal, the athletic symbol, organization logos, drawings, or additional lettering. The WCU acronym is not to be used apart from the lettering or base; both elements must remain so the WCU is not mistaken with other institutions that have the same acronym. The official colors for the logo are purple (Pantone 269) and gold (Pantone 123), preferably against a white background; while other background colors may be used, the logo should remain legible against alternative colors and not clash with them. On a dark background, such as purple or black, the WCU acronym and lines should remain gold with the West Chester University knocked out in white type. The logo also may be used as one color, either purple or black. Other colors should not be used. The type font is Cambria. While the logo can be used in smaller sizes, it should not be reduced to the point where it is illegible.
Athletic Logo/Mascot
Golden Ram Logo
The Golden Ram logo is a modern graphic approach to West Chester University athletics.
With its long history, the ram connects a sense of tradition with the modern day era
of WCU athletics. The logo should not be altered or modified in any way (including
caricatures), and it should not be blended with any other designs, such as the WCU
logo, old logos, the University seal, organization logos, drawings, or additional
lettering. There are two versions of the ram logo. One is just the ram, while the
other has both the ram and circular "West Chester University" and "Golden Rams" around
its circumference. Either may be used, but it is preferred that the ram by itself
be used when "West Chester University" appears somewhere else on the cover of the
publication.
The official colors for the logo are purple (Pantone 269) and gold (Pantone 123). Metallic gold, Pantone 871, also can be used. The logo should appear in one color (purple preferred) or two colors (purple and gold), or in black. The logo should not be reversed out (white knocked out from a colored background); rather, a white outline around the ram logo should be used so the ram will remain in color. The font is Clearface.
WCU Cipher
The WCU cipher is a graphic interpretation of West Chester University’s acronym specifically designed for athletics. It provides a unique, recognizable symbol of West Chester University athletics. The cipher should not be altered or modified in any way, and it should not be blended with any other designs, such as the new WCU logo, an older version of the WCU cipher, the University seal, organization logos, drawings, or additional lettering.
The official colors for the cipher are purple (Pantone 269) and metallic gold (Pantone 871). While the preferred gold is metallic, Pantone 123 can be substituted if necessary. The cipher is to be used in one color (purple preferred) or two colors (purple and gold), or in black. The WCU cipher may be reversed out (white knocked out from a colored background). Since the type is a stylized font, it should not be reproduced without an official electronic version that can be obtained from the Sports Information Office, the Office of Publications and Printing Services, or the Graphics and Printing Department.