Office of Public Relations
Langston University Brand Guidelines
Langston University Brand Guidelines were developed to create a shared visual brand identity that reflects the history and pride of Oklahoma’s HBCU.
The Langston University brand represents a rich history. Founded in 1897, Langston is the only Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the state of Oklahoma and the westernmost public HBCU in the United States. Our brand doesn’t just honor the past; it celebrates a bright future.
At the core of our brand—our reputation and character—is pride and determination, courage and strength. These attributes define the school’s very existence, from our grassroots founding to our unlimited potential.
This website is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain consistency and build our visual identity across all university communications.
Proper use of these new communication tools is an essential part of building a successful brand for Langston University. By adhering to these brand guidelines, we collectively strengthen our brand presence, enhancing our reputation and ensure a unified representation of our university.
Contact lupublicrelations@langston.edu for further assistance or clarification.
When referring to the University, you should always use either the full name or acronym:
Langston University
or
LU
You should not refer to the University as “Langston,” for it could be confused for the Town of Langston City, in which the University resides. In special cases, you may refer to the University as “Dear Langston,” which harkens back to the Langston University Alma Mater of the same name.
The Langston University Logo is the strongest identifying mark of the University. Its proper use and display not only strengthens LU’s branding efforts; it also accurately portrays Langston University’s mission and enhances the University’s credibility and trust in public spaces.
Langston University has three approved logo versions: the Primary University Mark, the Horizontal University Mark, and the LU/Lion Logo. Most communications should feature the Primary University Mark. The LU/Lion Logo is used for select promotional materials such as clothing. When in doubt, use the Primary University Mark.
In some cases, the Langston Lion may be used as a design element; however, this is never used as a substitute for the full logo.
Approved Logo Versions
Langston University has two approved logo versions: the Primary University Mark and the LU/Lion logo. Most communications should feature the Primary University Mark. The LU/Lion logo is used for athletics and select other promotional materials such as clothing. When in doubt, use the Primary University Mark.
In some cases, the Langston Lion may be used as a design element. However, this is never to be used as a substitute for the full logo.
Note: The LU mark without the Lion is reserved for football helmets only and should never be used in any other application.
Logo Safe Area
It is very important to provide sufficient space around the official Langston University and LU logo designs to ensure that the logos remain clearly visible and uncluttered by neighboring design elements. At minimum, the logos must have a safe area of one “L-space” (.25″) on all sides.
Prefered Usage
When possible, the Color Version of the Langston University or LU logo is recommended. The Color Version may only be used, however, if the background and material on which the logo is displayed does not negatively affect or compete with the Langston orange (Pantone 165) or Langston blue (Pantone 294) in the logo (more color information may be found in the “Logo Colors” section).
Dark Backgrounds
If the logo is on a dark background, then the Reversed Color Version or Reversed Version should be used. If the logo is on a background or material that negatively affects or competes with the Langston Orange (Pantone 165) or Langston Blue (Pantone 294), only the Reversed Version should be used.
Logo Size
Good design should dictate the size of the Langston University and LU logos as they relate to the rest of the piece. Readability should never be sacrificed, and the width should never be smaller than the listed lengths.
Incorrect Usage
Do not alter the Langston University or LU Logo in any way. This includes, but is not limited to, adding shadows, additional wording, stretching, skewing, squishing, Photoshop filters, using only part of the logo, changing, modifying the type, etc. The proportion, spacing and positioning of the type and graphic elements of the logos should always remain consistent with the Approved Logo Versions.
Incorrect usage also refers to using the incorrect logo. Any logo used to represent Langston University other than the logos shown in this section, with proper usage, are incorrect. Their continued usage may result in legal action. Examples of incorrect logos below:
The Opulent Orange and Brilliant Blue of Langston University have represented the Institution for over 125 years, and their proper usage help LU to stand out on the national stage.
The usage of the logo should dictate what color mix to use. For print pieces, you may use either the Pantone or CMYK values, but using the Pantone color is recommended, as it maintains consistency across different collateral pieces. If a digital piece is needed, use the RGB values. The color code will also help keep consistency across platforms.
There are two typefaces (fonts) approved for use on Langston University printed materials: Bembo Std and Gotham.
Bembo is a serif font that may be used for more scholarly-type applications.
For a sleeker and more modern look, use the Gotham typeface.
For emails, please use the web-safe font Arial. You should rarely need to use approved fonts smaller than 10 points or larger than 12 points.
Faculty and Staff members may request official university fonts for use at lupublicrelations@langston.edu.
The Seal is the primary mark for the President of Langston University and is rooted in the history of Oklahoma’s HBCU.
Use of the seal is reserved for approved signage; formal and official documents, such as diplomas, legal and official records, transcripts and programs for formal academic ceremonies, and policy manuals; and any other legal agreements binding the university.
The seal should not be used on merchandise, products or clothing without prior permission from the Office of Public Relations.
The use of a uniform Langston University email signature reinforces your professional affiliation with the University and provides consistency for communicating with audiences outside of the institution.
Your email signature should be treated like other forms of official university communication. For clarity and consistency, the following email signature format is recommended for university employees.
Copy, Personalize and Use
Copy the template below and paste into the signature preferences pane of your Outlook client, then replace the generic information with your own. Please use Arial font, size 12, unless otherwise noted:
Firstname Lastname / Job Title / Office
Office: 405-466-xxxx / Cell: xxx-xxx-xxxx [optional: cell phone] / Fax: 405-466-xxxx [optional: fax]
email@langston.edu
P.O. Box xxx / Langston, OK 73050
www.langston.edu [may replace with unit specific URL]
Contact jet.b.turner@langston.edu for further clarification.
Langston University’s rich history expands to its athletic programs. Since our founding in 1897, many world-class and trailblazing athletes have called LU home. From Harlem Globetrotter and Basketball Hall-of-Famer Marques Haynes to Super Bowl Champion Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson and beyond, our athletic programs continue to roar into the future.
Now, Langston University has three men’s (Football, Basketball, Track and Field) and five women’s (Basketball, Cheer, Softball, Track and Field, Volleyball) programs. It is our responsibility to continue the legacy of the past while strengthening the future of our athletic teams and student-athletes.
Because of this responsibility, athletics-specific branding guidelines are required. Contact lupublicrelations@langston.edu for more information and clarification.
Note: The LU mark without the Lion is reserved for football helmets only and should never be used in any other application.
Now that you are familiar with the rules and responsibilities of the Langston University brand, you can use your creative skills to spread that brand across the world! Below is a guide to becoming a certified vendor. If you have additional branding questions, please email lupublicrelations@langston.edu.
- Visit CLC
- To produce any merchandise bearing a mark of Langston University you must be registered with CLC Licensing. Begin by visiting clc.com. Click “Get Licensed” at the top of the webpage.
- Get Licensed
- Once you are on the “Get Licensed” page, read the information available on the page. Then, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click “Apply Now.” A new page will open. Click “apply now” and the bottom of that page.
- Create Application
- Now, you will sign up for an account and create your application. Fill out the information require and click “Create Application.” You’ll receive an email from notifications@brandmanager360.com with instructions to confirm your email address
- Complete Your Application
- Once you are inside the CLC system, you should find yourself on the Application Form. Fill out all the information as best suits you and your brand. On the section “Application Type,” select Oklahoma State University from the drop-down menu of institutions you would like to pursue. Submit your application once all of the information has been completed. NOTE: There is a one-time nonrefundable application fee of $250.
- Once Approved
- Once your application is approved, you will receive Langston University’s official logos and font files. (do they?) Designs you create for sale must first be uploaded to CLC approved by Langston University before they can be sold. Langston University will approve/deny/approve with edits your designs.