The University of Wisconsin–Madison recognizes that the use of its logos, images and names fosters a sense of pride and collective identity within the university community, and can provide potential sources of revenue or other non-financial benefits in support of university programs. These tangible and intangible benefits are beneficial to the entire university community, and, in turn, the state of Wisconsin.
But it’s also necessary to recognize that the university is a public institution and its logos, images or names must serve a public purpose. Thus, university logos, images and names cannot be used in a manner that implies a preference for or endorsement of private businesses and non-university organizations, and must be used in such a way that the university’s reputation and image are protected. Therefore, the university has adopted the following policies applicable to the use of university logos, images and names and marks by university and non-university entities.
The Office of the Vice Chancellor for University Relations has been delegated the authority to administer these policies. Any dispute about these policies or their application must be referred for resolution to the Vice Chancellor for University Relations. Certain decision-making and administrative functions related to these policies may be delegated to other university offices or entities upon appropriate application to and approval by the Vice Chancellor for University Relations.
These policies will be reviewed and revised as needed.
Please review the information below, or contact the Office of the Vice Chancellor for University Relations with questions.
USE OF NAMES, LOGOS, SYMBOLS, AND MARKS (TRADEMARKS)
The university’s official institutional names, logos, symbols, images, photographs and other identifying marks are trademarks, service marks, or other forms of intellectual property (collectively, “marks”) that are owned by the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System on behalf of the University of Wisconsin–Madison. There are UW System and UW–Madison policies in place governing the use of marks, including all institutional and athletic logos. These policies are described on this page and can also be found at the Trademark Licensing website.
The university’s trademarks include those set forth by Trademark Licensing and others that may subsequently be adopted, used and/or registered.
(Uses by University Departments and Units and Registered Student Organizations)
University trademarks may not be used when the use:
University students and employees may not individually use university marks or their affiliation with the university in any manner which suggests or implies university support or endorsement of any company, product, political candidate or position regarding public policies, political movement, activity or program. Students and employees may use the university’s name in making a true and accurate statement of his/her relationship with, or employment by, the University of Wisconsin–Madison. University students and employees should not use university letterhead bearing university marks to conduct personal business.
1/15/2021