#  Use of Name 

 



       ![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) 

 

 



 

 



 

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The Faculty of Arts and Sciences follows the University’s Use of Name policies, which govern the appropriate use of the Harvard name, shield, logos, and other University trademarks.

The Harvard Trademark Program administers and enforces these policies. FAS Communications & Marketing works closely with the Harvard Trademark Program and Harvard Public Affairs & Communications (HPAC) to help FAS departments, offices, centers, and initiatives understand and apply University guidance.



 

##  Quick Links 

 



 [ Harvard Trademark Program arrow\_circle\_right ](https://trademark.harvard.edu/) [ Harvard graphic identity guidelines arrow\_circle\_right ](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/brand-identity/) [ FAS branding arrow\_circle\_right ](/brand-guidelines) [ Guidelines for the creation of a new shield design or logo by Harvard departmen… arrow\_circle\_right ](https://trademark.harvard.edu/guidelines-creation-new-shield-design-or-logo-harvard-departments-units-and-officially) 

 

 

 

 

##  Understanding Use of Name 

The Harvard name and visual identity are among the University’s most valuable assets. They should accurately represent official Harvard entities and activities and should never imply an official relationship or endorsement where none exists.



 

**In general:**

- Official Harvard Schools, departments, offices, centers, and approved initiatives may represent their affiliation using approved Harvard and FAS branding.
- The Harvard name, shield, logos, and other trademarks may not be used for personal, commercial, or promotional purposes without appropriate authorization.
- New names, logos, or visual identities that represent Harvard entities may require review under University policies.



 

###  Compliance with University Policy 

The [Harvard Trademark Program](https://trademark.harvard.edu) administers and enforces the University’s Use of Name policies. Uses of the Harvard or FAS name, logos, or other trademarks that do not align with University policy may be subject to review and may require updates or removal to achieve compliance. FAS Communications works with the Harvard Trademark Program and affected departments or units to help resolve questions and support compliance with University guidance.



 

##  Common Questions 

 



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###    Can I use the Harvard or FAS name?  expand\_more  

Official FAS departments, offices, centers, and approved initiatives may use the Harvard and FAS names to accurately represent their affiliation with the University.

If you’re naming a new program, initiative, event, website, or publication, consult FAS Communications & Marketing before launch to ensure your proposed use aligns with University policy.

 



 

 

 



###    Can I create a new logo?  expand\_more  

Most departments, research projects, and initiatives should use the existing FAS visual identity rather than creating a standalone logo.

If you’re considering a new logo or signature extension, contact FAS Communications & Marketing first. We'll help determine the appropriate approach and coordinate with Harvard Trademark and HPAC if additional review is required.

 



 

 

 



###    Can I create a website on the fas.harvard.edu domain?  expand\_more  

Official Harvard websites hosted on the fas.harvard.edu domain or built using the HarvardSites Drupal platform are available only to eligible Harvard faculty, staff, and degree-seeking graduate students. Websites must represent official Harvard activities and have an eligible Harvard site owner.

For eligibility requirements, ownership responsibilities, and instructions for requesting a new site, visit the Websites & HarvardSites page.

 



 

 

 



###    Can I create a social media account?  expand\_more  

Social media accounts using the Harvard or FAS name should accurately represent an official University department, office, center, or approved initiative.

Before creating a new account, contact FAS Communications & Marketing to discuss your strategy. If a new account is deemed appropriate, they will help ensure the account name and branding align with University guidelines.

 



 

 

 



###    Can I print Harvard/FAS on something?  expand\_more  

The Harvard name, shield, logos, and other trademarks [may only be used on merchandise that complies with the University’s Use of Name and Trademark policies](https://trademark.harvard.edu/guidelines-ordering-internal-insignia-items-swag).

Before producing branded merchandise that includes the Harvard or FAS name, logos, or other University trademarks, consult FAS Communications. Depending on the intended use, review by the Harvard Trademark Program may also be required.

Merchandise produced for official Harvard departments, offices, centers, and approved initiatives should accurately represent the University’s identity and use approved branding.

 



 

 

 



###    Can a vendor or outside organization use the Harvard name or logo?  expand\_more  

Third parties are not permitted to use the Harvard name, logo, or other trademarks without the University’s express permission. Requests are reviewed by Harvard’s Trademark Program on a case-by-case basis. Please review the [Policy on the Use of Harvard Names and Insignias](https://trademark.harvard.edu/policy-on-use-of-harvard-names-and-insignias), [Endorsement Guidelines](https://trademark.harvard.edu/endorsement-guidelines), and [Frequently Asked Questions about the Use of Harvard’s Name](https://trademark.harvard.edu/frequently-asked-questions-use-of-harvards-name) before submitting a request. If you have questions, contact FAS Communications, and we will connect you with the appropriate resource.

 



 

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

##  Need Help? 

**FAS Communications & Marketing can help you:**

- Determine whether your proposed use of the Harvard or FAS name aligns with University guidance.
- Navigate questions related to naming new departments, centers, initiatives, programs, websites, events, or communications.
- Understand when review by the Harvard Trademark Program or HPAC may be required.
- Connect with the appropriate University office for questions related to trademarks, visual identity, or branding.

If your request involves the use of the Harvard name, shield, logos, or other trademarks—or requires additional review under the University’s Use of Name or branding 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)