# Brand Guidelines ## Brand Guidelines The Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) has a shared visual identity that helps audiences recognize our schools, departments, centers, and initiatives. Consistent use of our visual identity helps strengthen our reputation, build trust with our audiences, and present a unified experience across our communications. ![Exterior view of Harvard gate with Veritas shield](/sites/g/files/omnuum13201/files/styles/hwp_28_10__1920x685/public/2026-08/HARVARD_2.jpg?itok=xgAtiM7J) ## expand\_more **The FAS follows the University’s branding, graphic identity, and Use of Name policies.** FAS Communications & Marketing partners with the Harvard Trademark Program and Harvard Public Affairs & Communications (HPAC) to provide guidance on the appropriate use of the Harvard and FAS names, logos, and visual identity. While this page summarizes common questions and best practices for the FAS community, University policies and guidance govern all use of Harvard trademarks and visual identity. ## Quick Links [ Request access to download FAS logos and brand templates arrow\_circle\_right ](https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cC3OmF41wmp8uSa?Q_PopulateResponse={%22QID24%22:%223%22}) [ Policy on the use of Harvard names and insignias arrow\_circle\_right ](https://trademark.harvard.edu/policy-on-use-of-harvard-names-and-insignias) [ Guidelines for the creation of a new shield design or logo by Harvard arrow\_circle\_right ](https://trademark.harvard.edu/guidelines-creation-new-shield-design-or-logo-harvard-departments-units-and-officially) [ Harvard identity guidelines arrow\_circle\_right ](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/brand-identity/) [ Contact FAS Communications & Marketing arrow\_circle\_right ](mailto:comms@fas.harvard.edu) ## Brand Overview The Harvard brand represents excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship. Within that framework, the FAS has its own identity that reflects the breadth of its academic departments, research centers, institutes, museums, and administrative units. **Our visual identity should:** - Clearly identify official FAS departments, programs, and initiatives - Create a consistent experience across digital and print communications - Support accessibility and readability - Reinforce Harvard’s reputation through thoughtful, cohesive design ### Using the FAS Logo The FAS logo is an official representation of the FAS and should be used in accordance with the University’s branding and Use of Name policies. For guidance on when and how the Harvard and FAS names, logos, and other trademarks may be used, see the [University’s Use of Name Policies](https://trademark.harvard.edu/pages/policies-forms). ### Divisions, Departments, Centers, and Offices Official FAS departments, centers, institutes, and administrative offices should use the approved FAS signature and visual identity. If you’re unsure which logo is appropriate for your unit, contact FAS Communications. ### Research Projects and Initiatives Research projects, grants, working groups, and temporary initiatives generally should not create standalone logos. Instead, we recommend using the official FAS signature with the project name presented as a headline or title. This approach reinforces Harvard’s institutional identity while providing flexibility for your project to establish its own voice. Although many projects want to differentiate themselves, a standalone logo is rarely the most effective way to do so. Strong content, compelling storytelling, and a consistent visual approach are what make a project memorable. Rather than building a separate brand, projects benefit from the credibility and recognition of the Harvard identity while using content and design to communicate their unique mission and impact. For official long-term initiatives that are recognized as FAS subunits, a signature extension may be appropriate. FAS Communications can help determine the best approach. ### Creating a New Logo Rather than creating independent visual identities for every project or initiative, the FAS encourages departments and programs to use the University’s established visual identity whenever possible. Doing so helps audiences immediately recognize your connection to Harvard while reinforcing the strength of the FAS brand. Because the Harvard name and visual identity are protected, creating a new logo should be considered carefully. **Before developing a new logo:** - Consult with FAS Communications & Marketing. - Review the Harvard Graphic Identity Guidelines. - Review the Harvard Trademark guidance on creating new shields and logos. If a new logo is developed for an official Harvard entity or activity, it should be reviewed by: - FAS Communications - Harvard Trademark - Harvard Public Affairs & Communications (HPAC) ### Promotional Items Promotional items and branded merchandise should use the official FAS visual identity and approved Harvard brand assets. Before developing custom artwork or logos for merchandise, consult FAS Communications to determine the most appropriate branding approach. Whenever possible, use existing FAS signatures rather than creating custom logos or graphics for individual events, programs, or projects. If your merchandise requires a new visual treatment or signature extension, FAS Communications can help guide you through the appropriate review process. ### Brand Templates To help maintain consistency, FAS Communications [provides approved templates and brand assets](/templates "Templates") for common communications needs. ## Writing About the FAS A consistent visual identity should be paired with consistent language. When writing about the FAS: - Use official department and program names. - Follow FAS editorial style guidance for first and subsequent references. - Use approved acronyms after the first reference where appropriate. - Avoid creating unofficial names or abbreviations for departments or initiatives. Please refer to the [Editorial Style Guide](https://hu.sharepoint.com/:w:/s/FASCommunicationsMarketingHub/IQCA4pq-UnNTRYfC9QsidHmkAVKrqFj5-3_snvMyizi9Y0c?e=76v4Rj) for more information. ## Need Help? **FAS Communications & Marketing can help you:** - Select the appropriate FAS logo or signature for your department, office, center, or initiative. - Apply the FAS and Harvard visual identity consistently across your communications. - Determine whether an existing FAS signature or a signature extension best meets your needs. - Navigate branding questions related to new programs, initiatives, research projects, or events. - Access approved brand assets, templates, and other communications resources. If your request involves the use of the Harvard name, shield, logos, or other trademarks, or requires additional review under the University’s branding or Use of Name policies, we’ll coordinate with the Harvard Trademark Program and HPAC as needed. ## Who Does What? FAS Communications & Marketing Harvard Trademark Program Harvard Public Affairs & Communications (HPAC) ## FAS Communications & Marketing Advises FAS departments and units on branding, communications, and appropriate use of FAS visual identity. Serves as a first point of contact for questions and coordinates with University partners when needed. [ draftsContact](mailto:comms@fas.harvard.edu) ## Harvard Trademark Program Administers and enforces Harvard’s Use of Name policies, including questions about the Harvard name, trademarks, official representation, and third-party use. [ draftsContact](mailto:trademark_useofname@harvard.edu) ## Harvard Public Affairs & Communications (HPAC) Maintains the Harvard Graphic Identity Guidelines and provides guidance on the University’s visual identity, including logos, signature extensions, and graphic standards. Develops approved signature extensions using the official Harvard shield for eligible Schools, departments, and units. [ draftsContact](mailto:identityguidelines@harvard.edu)