University Marks
Logo
The SSU logo has a curved line within it, representing the hills that serve as a backdrop to the campus, and utilizes two fonts: the word "Sonoma" is in Americana and the words "State University" are Avant Garde.
There are several approved versions of the logo, shown below. The University logo should be used on:
- Letterhead/envelopes/business cards
- Publications
- Posters/fliers/postcards
- Print advertisements
- Merchandising items such as clothing, pens, mugs, etc. (except those items that use the athletic mascot)
- University podiums
- University vehicles
- Web pages
Modifying the logo in any way is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, superimposing words or graphics across the logo, around it or through it. The logo cannot be distorted, stretched or altered in any way. It may not be used as a basis for another emblem or logo. The color of the logo must be either University blue and white as shown at top left, or black and white.
The Sonoma State University name and logo supersede all others in size and proportion; the University name and logo should always supersede in prominence the marks of any departments or programs.
To use the logo, go to www.sonoma.edu/logos for the official, approved logos. Do not copy a logo from a website, scan it from a printed document, or re-create it.
Seawolf Marks
The "Seawolf" is a mythical creature and title of a book ("The Sea Wolf") by famed author and adventurer Jack London. While the SSU mascot bears no resemblance to the antagonist in the book, it celebrates London, who made his home and wrote many of his books living in the north bay town of Glen Ellen in Sonoma County.
The Seawolf mascot and various secondary marks comprise the athletic signature. These images are intended primarily for athletics and not generally for scholarly, co-curricular or academic use, although its use is permitted in certain circumstances and by express permission of the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. Do not copy the mascot from a website, scan it from a printed document, or re-create it.
The athletic signature combines the two elements of the athletics brand, the Seawolf logo and wordmark. The athletic signature is to be displayed in approved colors only (dark blue, PMS 286; and light blue, PMS 278). Permission for its use must be obtained from the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. They will offer guidance on which mark to use, and when. Contact Brandon Bronzan: brandon.bronzan@sonoma.edu; x4-2358.
Seal
Sonoma State University's seal is a symbol of the University itself, and for all of which it stands. The elements within the seal include:
- a dove, which symbolizes peace and freedom of the spirit
- a torch, which represents the flame of learning
- a tree, which exemplifies the beauty and strength of the redwood which gives this region its name, the Redwood Empire
- the Latin words, lux mentis, lux orbis, appear at the bottom of the seal and translate to "light of the mind, light of the world"
The seal is not a promotional device, but serves to strengthen institutional identity and acts as an official mark. Therefore, its use is restricted and reserved for official University documents only, such as:
- Commencement related items
- Policies
- Official correspondence generated by the Executive Office
- Transcripts
- Certain certificates and awards (may also use the logo)
- Building monument signage
- Items representing the president
- University podiums (may also use the logo)
Modifying the seal in any way is prohibited.This includes, but is not limited to, superimposing words or graphics across the seal, around the seal or through the seal. It cannot be distorted, stretched or altered in any way. It may not be used as a basis for another seal, logo or mark. It may not be used as decoration or as background art.* The color of the seal must be either University blue and white or black and white.
The seal must never appear smaller than one inch in diameter and will have at least 1/8 inch of blank space surrounding it. Any usage of the seal, for web or print, must be approved by the University Affairs Division. Do not copy a seal from a website, scan it from a printed document, or re-create it.
*Note: the seal used within the banners on SSU's web site is the official CSU seal, which adheres to different standards, allowing for artistic interpretation.