Campus Use

Since UC Davis first opened in 1908, we’ve been known for standout academics, sustainability and Aggie Pride as well as valuing the Northern California lifestyle. These themes are woven into our 100-plus-year history and our reputation for solving problems related to food, health, the environment and society.

Over the history of UC Davis, symbols, icons, traditions and trademarks have come to represent the UC Davis community. Decades ago the UC Davis Trademark Licensing program was established to ensure these marks and symbols are used properly.

UC Davis departments and registered student organizations should be aware of University trademark licensing policies and procedures.

University Departments

In order to safeguard UC Davis intellectual property and satisfy the university’s graphic standards, registered student organizations and clubs planning to display university trademarks for campus merchandising programs or promotions review and approval from the UC Davis trademark licensing office. All merchandising activity must be sourced from a company licensed with UC Davis. For a complete list of university licensees, please see the Vendor List page.

Examples of merchandising activity include:

Sales of products for fundraising programs
Sales of products to group members or staff
Promotional product giveaways

University Department Identity Guidelines

A logo or wordmark is a standardized graphic representation associated with an institution, organization, or business. When used consistently, it helps create a clear and memorable identity and becomes a symbol that provides audiences with immediate and powerful recognition and association with the institution.

The UC Davis wordmark may be used widely by the UC Davis community.

A standardized signature system provides options for university colleges and other units to combine a unit name with the wordmark.

Steps for Approval

Contact a vendor to begin your project, once artwork has been created the vendor will submit the artwork to the UC Davis Trademark Licensing office for review and approval.
Follow up with either your vendor or the UC Davis Trademark Licensing office for the status of your order.

Questions? Please call or email UC Davis Trademark Licensing at 530-752-1930 or iaverduzco@ucdavis.edu

Requirements

University trademarks may not be altered and all merchandise must include the department's name and/or logo prominently on the product.
Departments should adhere to the university brand standards as instructed by UC Davis Strategic Communications.

Registered Student Organizations & Clubs

Examples of merchandising activity include:

Sales of products for fundraising programs
Sales of products to group members or staff
Promotional product giveaways

Registered Student Group Identity Guidelines

Registered Student Groups are able to identify with UC Davis in so much as:

The student group identifies as a student-based organization not to be confused with a University department, program or initiative.
The student group identity conforms to the guidelines herein and does not infringe on UC Davis registered marks, athletic brand or intellectual property.

Student Organization Names

Student organizations should include the words "at UC Davis" along with their organization's name. For example, "Accounting Club at UC Davis."

Student organizations may use the word "Aggie" in their name, but it must be done in a way that does not construe or imply the university has taken an official position. For example, "Aggie Republican Club" is permissible but "Aggies for Republicans" would not be permissible.

Steps for Approval

Contact a vendor to begin you project, once artwork has been created the vendor will submit the artwork to the UC Davis Trademark Licensing office for review and approval.
Follow up with either your vendor or the UC Davis Trademark Licensing office for the status of your order.

Questions? Please email Marketing at marketing@ucdavis.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I order t-shirts and/or other merchandise?
A licensed vendor must be used for all campus merchandise, whether for department use, promotional giveaways or for fundraising resale. Once you have obtained the appropriate approvals, your licensed vendor may manufacture your product.
When and why do I need approval to use UC Davis logos?
Anytime you wish to use a university trademark on merchandise that identifies or is associated with UC Davis it requires approval by the UC Davis Trademark Licensing office. UC Davis must control and monitor the use of its brand or risk losing its rights to use its trademarks as unique identifiers of UC Davis.
Do I need permission to use university logos for my marketing publications?
You do not need permission from the UC Davis Trademark Licensing office to use university logos on marketing materials. However, it is advised that student organizations/clubs check with their advisors prior to printing of the materials. University departments should also consult with their department communicator or with UC Davis Strategic Communications before production.
How does UC Davis handle artwork submissions and review?
All licensee product designs must be submitted for review and approval prior to production, marketing or sales activities can begin. All product designs must be submitted via CLC's Brand Manager 360 online portal. It is essential that licensees follow this procedure to ensure UC Davis trademarks are being used properly. During the week, we will respond to artwork approvals within 3-5 days.
What qualifies as a trademark, logo or symbol?
Any mark, name, logo, symbol, nickname, abbreviation, word, mascot, slogan, insignia uniform or landmark that is associated with UC Davis and is distinguished from any other university, team or organization.
What is a licensee?
A licensee is a person, company or organization who has been granted the right, under legal agreement, to use UC Davis' trademarks.