Trademarks and Licensing
Ohio University maintains federal trademark protections on our official name and marks, including but not limited to the arched OHIO, the Forever OHIO badge, the Paw Print and the Attack Cat mark. In addition, trademark protection extends beyond the logo: the names and phrases “Ohio University,” “Bobcats,” “Forever Ohio” and simply “Ohio” are federally registered trademarks of the institution.
Use of any of these words or marks in a way that could appear to represent our institution or infer a relationship or endorsement requires explicit approval through Ohio University Communications and Marketing or our trademark licensing partner, Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC).
Licensed Merchandise
Any products displaying the Ohio University name or any of its logos or marks are managed through the Trademark Licensing program in partnership with CLC.
Products displaying any of OHIO’s trademarked names, phrases or marks must be produced by a licensed vendor and artwork must be approved through the licensing program.
NOTE: The arched OHIO or any element of an official University logo should not be incorporated into custom unique graphics without express approval from Ohio University Communications and Marketing.
Merchandise for your Unit or Department
Apparel and other branded merchandise play an important role in reinforcing our brand, and both the products you choose, and the product artwork can leave a lasting brand impression. Here are some guidelines to consider when ordering your product:
- Use a licensed vendor. For simplicity, route orders through our promotional products vendor Consolidus or through University Communications or Marketing.
- Select products in our primary brand colors – green or white – or use artwork in brand colors on a neutral color such as gray.
- Keep artwork simple: Use your official unit logo lockup or the arched OHIO as the primary artwork.
- If you are adding a unique message, use University fonts. UCM can assist with the set up of product artwork as needed.
Branded merchandise purchased by the University or one of its departments not for resell is exempt from licensing royalty fees.
Merchandise for Sale
Any merchandise sold displaying University-owned names, phrases or marks, is subject to licensing royalties, collected by CLC. Units wishing to purchase items for resell will need to use a licensed vendor and pay royalties on the wholesale order.
Become a Licensed Vendor
Interested in becoming a licensed vendor? You can apply online to be added to the approved licensed vendor list through CLC.
For companies and retailers interested in exploring unique or exclusive licensing partnerships, contact Robin Oliver, Vice President of University Communications and Marketing for more information. For local crafters or small businesses interested in producing products in low volume or for unique events, contact CLC Partnership Manager Maggie Oaks to learn more about your options.