Logos

The strongest link to our brand.

Case Western Reserve University’s new logo, created in 2007, is a modern representation of the traditional sun seen in the historical crests of both Western Reserve University and Case Institute of Technology. The new sun is stylized and suggests a 21st-century view of Earth from space.

This representation of light embodies the combined knowledge and strengths of Case Western Reserve: the liberal arts, humanities and health sciences associated with Western Reserve University and the engineering and technology associated with Case Institute of Technology.

The sun was boxed to build on the previous logo, but the top-right corner of the outline was opened to symbolize global reach and limitless potential. In 2009, slight modifications were made to the logo to enhance its integrity.

The university logo is the strongest link to our brand. That is why it is important to use only approved logos in all communications. Whenever an unapproved logo is used or an approved logo is changed or altered in any way, it dilutes our brand.

University logos are trademarked and cannot be altered or incorporated into the design of other logos by any individual or entity that is part of or outside the university. Any individual or entity within the university with questions about appropriate usage of the university's logo or other aspect of its brand should contact University Marketing and Communications at marcominfo@case.edu. In addition, any outside organization or company wishing to use our logo on promotional or advertising materials must receive approval.

Because of its strong association with the university, the approved logo should appear on the cover of all marketing communications. The default placement for the logo should be at the bottom of the communications piece, signifying it as the anchor or signature component of your message.

Our Logos

Case Western Reserve University stacked and horizontal logos

Case Western Reserve offers logos in two formats: stacked and formal (horizontal). Each format then offers a version with or without the university's tagline, "think beyond the possible."

Formal Logo

Case Western Reserve University formal horizontal logo

In 2009, the logo was enhanced to strengthen its appearance across a full range of applications. Enhancements include a stronger sunburst, increased font size for the “EST.” and use of one color for the entire logo.

Pre- and post-2009 Case Western Reserve University logos
Enhanced

In 2009, the logo was enhanced to strengthen its appearance across a full range of applications. Enhancements include a stronger sunburst, increased font size for the “EST.” and use of one color for the entire logo.

 

Case Western Reserve University logos with and without tagline
Elements

The logo is made up of five elements: the sunburst symbol, the university name, the rule, the date and the option of the tagline. None of the logo’s elements should be altered in any way.

 

Case Western Reserve University logo with tagline
Tagline

The logo can be used with or without the tagline, although the tagline version is the preferred, default logo. The tagline version must be used in all advertising. The version without the tagline is preferred for signage.

 

Case Western Reserve University logo in white with dark blue background
Color

When designing new pieces, be sure you are using the strengthened, single-color logo. This logo can appear in blue, white/reverse or—in black-and-white applications—black. However, the default color is blue.

Note: The white/reverse logo is not the same as the blue logo in white. The sunburst and its background box are treated differently in this application to keep the sunburst in white. Use only the authorized logos available for download and do not alter the color or shape of the logo in any way.

Stacked Logo

Case Western Reserve University stacked logos with and without taglines

The stacked logo uses the same five elements as the formal logo, but oriented in a better fashion for vertical applications. This version has a more casual spirit than the formal logo and should only be used where space is limited.

As with the formal logo, never alter this logo in any way and use it only in the brand colors it is provided in: blue, white/reverse and black.

This logo can be used with or without the tagline. The tagline-free version is preferred for signage. This logo also has versions with and without “EST. 1826.” It should never appear smaller than 1 inch in width. When it appears between 1 and 1.5 inches in width, use the version without “EST. 1826.” For applications larger than 1.5 inches in width, use the version with “EST. 1826.”

Logo Placement

An image that shows the correct amount of space around the CWRU logo, the size of the sunburst

The university’s logo must appear on the cover of all pieces and should always appear at the bottom. This provides an anchor or sign off to all university communications.

When using another version of the logo, such as a school or center logo, it is acceptable to put the school or center logo on the cover of the piece, always anchored at the bottom, and use the formal university logo as a sign off on the back cover. In single-sided applications, such as a poster or flyer, it is acceptable to use the school or center logo and forgo the formal logo.

For the web, the logo must be incorporated into the header of all website pages.

Do not use any of the logos as a masthead or headline.

The logo should never be used smaller than 1.75 inches in width.

Do not crowd other graphics or text around the logo. A “clear zone” or white space equal to the width of the sunburst must be maintained around the logo.

Logo Colors

When placing the logo on a colored background, determine which color is best for contrast and visual reproduction. Do not place the logo over a pattern.

If you place the logo over a photograph, position it in an uncluttered area to maximize visibility and impact.

Changing/Creating a Logo

Maintaining the integrity of our logo is key to building a strong brand. It must be presented in a consistent and legible manner. Use only university-approved logo files.

When using the university logo, do NOT:

  • alter the logo in any way by adding elements or using only portions of the logo.
  • change the logo’s color or warp or distort the logo.
  • create a custom logo for specific purposes. This only dilutes our brand.

University Seal

Case Western Reserve University presidential seal

The university seal is reserved for limited use by the president and the board of trustees in official university documents of importance, such as commencement and convocation. Seal use is approved by University Marketing and Communications. Please contact our office at marcominfo@case.edu or call 216.368.4440 with requests for use of the university seal.