Brand Guidelines

Dear Friends:

When I returned to Ohio State in 2007, I challenged our community to begin an ambitious journey to forge a more cohesive One University, both in how we act and how we present ourselves to the world. We knew from the beginning that such an endeavor would demand colossal and collective change—in mind and heart—which would be neither easy nor quick.

I am proud to share the exceptional progress we have made. Within these pages, you will find a toolbox of strategies developed through extensive collaborations across the University. These branding guidelines will apply to all communications going forward, providing a roadmap for how to tell the inspiring stories of this great University in one consistent voice.

Branding is sometimes viewed as purely a corporate science. But at its core, our University brand is not a business plan. It is, quite simply, a mirror of who we are. It is the story we tell, the promise we make, and the experience we share with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends around the globe.

To be sure, this is an extraordinary time in the history of Ohio State. With 63,000 students, 42,000 faculty and staff, and 500,000 alumni, our community of talented individuals possesses extraordinary potential to transform our world. As we continue our march toward eminence and into the forefront of knowledge, discovery, and progress, we must do so together, in one voice, as One University.

Sincerely,
E. Gordon Gee
President