Washington and Lee University
During the 2008-09 academic year, the Graphic Identify Working Group, comprising faculty, staff and students, undertook its charge to find a consistent graphic identity that reflects Washington and Lee's tradition and character and to develop guidelines for its use on stationery, on the Web site and in our publications.
The working group's deliberations went in numerous directions. The group also held a series of focus groups with members of the University community.
The result of this work is the introduction of a new graphic identity system that takes advantage of our existing symbols and creates a comprehensive guide to the appropriate use of those symbols.
In the end, the working group has returned to a wordmark (i.e., words used as a symbol) that is reminiscent of the 1987 version of the graphic identity system. In fact, some will assume that this current version of the wordmark is identical to the previous one; in fact, there are some subtle and important changes to the design.
When the working group began this project, the most compelling reason for an evaluation of the University's graphic identity was the proliferation over the years of a jumble of varied logos that created confusion among viewers.
As the working group stated on several occasions, they had no intention to discard existing symbols that have storied traditions here — the trident, the coat of arms (also called the crest) and the seal. Instead, the goal was, and is, to protect those symbols and make certain that they are used as they were meant to be used.
This online graphic standards manual describes the way in which our symbols should be used. In addition, there are links so you can order some materials online. Our new system is being phased in, so please do not order new materials until you have exhausted existing supplies.
By using this shared graphic identity, we can help build upon Washington and Lee's reputation for excellence.
The Graphic Identity Working Group
Dennis Cross, Chair, Vice President for University Advancement
Christa Bowden, Assistant Professor of Art
Jim Farrar, Secretary of the University
Ray Ellington, Assistant Director of Campus Recreation
Jeff Hanna, Executive Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Jan Hathorn, Director of Athletics
Janet Ikeda, Associate Dean of the College
Peter Jetton, Director of Law Communications
Bruce Macdonald, Williams School
John Stanton, Class of 2009
Jonathan Webster, Associate Dean of Admissions
Mary Woodson, Assistant Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Margaret Ward, Class of 2009