Toolkit: Registered Student Groups & Clubs
Overview
As a registered club or student organization at Utah State University, you are an important part of our campus community. Your organization contributes to the rich tapestry of student life and enhances the overall university experience.
Officially sponsored clubs and student organizations may produce and give away branded goods bearing the university name, trademarks, or logos (marks) on items such as t-shirts, uniforms, and other branded goods.
All posters, flyers, and other marketing materials must include the name of the club or student organization. All club and student organization marketing materials must follow the university brand standards and must be pre-approved by University Marketing and Communications, Trademark Licensing.
If you are involved in an unrecognized or unregistreed student club or organization, you will need to become a registered club with Student Affairs or your college to gain permission to use any of the university trademarks, logos, or wordmarks.
Club & Student Organization Logos
Registered clubs and student organizations at Utah State University are allowed to create logos specific to their group. All club and student organization logos require coordination with and approval from the University Marketing and Communications, Trademark Licensing prior to use.
The following guidelines apply:
- All student groups and clubs must include the words: Club, Student Union, Student Association, Sorority, Fraternity, Student Council, Student Group, Student Committee, Students, Students For..., Student Fellowships, Student Community, Greek Letters, Student Chapter, or similar defining terms in their name and logos.
- All graphics created must be specific to your organization or event. If a graphic is used, or created, university trademarks and logos cannot be incorporated into the graphic as this modifies a logo and creates a new logo.
- Images and/or logos of third-party sponsors are not allowed to appear on uniforms.
- Prior to use, all club or organization designs must be submitted for review and approval by University Marketing and Communications, Trademark Licensing. Please submit artwork via the artwork approval form.
- The use of the university logos must adhere to university brand standards. Official logos may not be modified in any way or combined with other logos or verbiage. The University logos must stand alone and have the proper area of isolation.
- Clubs and organizations must remain in good standing to be eligible to use the university marks.
Why Visual Brand Standards Matter
A consistent visual identity fosters a sense of unity and professionalism. It allows the university to be easily recognized and builds trust with our audience. When faculty and staff consistently use approved logos, colors, and fonts in presentations, documents, and even university social media profiles, it strengthens the Aggie brand and creates a memorable impression.
Good Brand Stewardship
When organizing camps, clubs, or other activities and events, it's crucial to respect intellectual property (IP) rights to avoid legal issues and uphold ethical standards. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
Use Original Content: Encourage participants to create their own original content rather than using materials that belong to others. Provide them with tools and guidance to develop their ideas.
Respect Copyright: Emphasize the importance of respecting copyright laws. Teach participants about fair use and how to properly attribute sources when necessary.
Avoid Trademark Infringement: Caution participants against using trademarks without permission. Advise them to avoid using logos, brand names, or slogans that belong to other companies or organizations.
Obtain Permission: If participants want to use third-party content, they must seek permission from the copyright or trademark holder. To be allowed to use third-party content, written permission must be provided to the university trademark licensing director for documentation. This could involve contacting the owner directly or using content that is explicitly labeled for reuse with appropriate licenses.
Create Licensing Agreements: If collaborating with external parties or using third-party content, you must coordinate with university marketing and communications and trademark licensing. This use falls under endorsements, sponsorships, and co-branding and must follow the university trademark review process. All licensing agreements are required to be reviewed and signed by university marketing and communications, trademark licensing, for trademark and logo use. University marketing and communications, trademark licensing can create licensing agreements that outline the terms of use. Ensure that participants understand and comply with these agreements.
Monitor Content: Regularly monitor the content created by participants to ensure compliance with intellectual property laws. Provide guidance and corrections when necessary.
Encourage Creativity: Foster a culture of creativity and innovation within the camp, club, or other activities. Encourage participants to explore new ideas and create original works that they can be proud of.
Lead by Example: As organizers, lead by example by respecting intellectual property rights in all aspects of your activities. Demonstrate the importance of ethical behavior and integrity.
By following these guidelines, you can create a positive and ethical environment where participants can learn and create without infringing on the intellectual property rights of others.