Brand & Marketing Resources
Our Brand
As Concordia University Irvine approaches its 50th anniversary, the University has embarked on a comprehensive, university-wide rebranding effort. This initiative reflects Concordia’s growth as a comprehensive institution and ensures that our presence and position in higher education accurately represent the distinctive, high-quality Lutheran Christian education we offer to students in Irvine, across the country, and around the world.
The rebrand was introduced through a new marketing campaign featuring members of the Concordia community. A unified green and gold color palette now connects the University and athletics brands, alongside a refreshed logo, updated university seal, and a renewed athletic identity. This work would not have been possible without the contributions of our students, alumni, faculty, staff, trustees, and community members. We are grateful for their time, insight, and commitment.
A Message from the President
Concordia University Irvine has revealed a new university brand as we prepare to celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2026. Guided by extensive market research, focus groups, and collaboration with an experienced brand partner, this rebrand marks an important milestone in the University’s history.
As Concordia has matured, it became clear that we needed to tell our story more clearly, boldly, and widely. While honoring our past, this new brand looks forward with confidence. The refreshed logo, academic seal, athletic mascot, and Freedom to Explore campaign reinforce our commitment to providing an outstanding Christian education grounded in our Lutheran heritage and dedicated to the Great Commission.
We are excited to move forward with this renewed approach to telling Concordia’s story and invite our community to embrace this brand as we look toward the next 50 years.
Michael A. Thomas, Ph.D.
President, Concordia University Irvine
Brand Elements
University Logo
The redesigned Concordia University Irvine logo reflects our commitment to faith and educational excellence as a private, nonprofit Christian institution. The arched form prominently features a cross, symbolizing our Christian identity, with the CU Center roofline beneath it. The logo uses a mature, collegiate typeface and appears primarily in green, with approved reversed options in white and black.
Use of the University logo constitutes agreement to follow the Concordia Style Guide. All logo use requires approval through the Trademark Use Request Form.
University Seal
The official University seal is reserved for formal and ceremonial use, including diplomas, presidential documents, and official academic events. The updated seal features the cross and CU Center silhouette, surrounded by “Dedicated to the Great Commission” and “Sola scriptura. Sola gratia. Sola fide.” The founding year, 1976, has been reestablished to reflect Concordia’s origins as Christ College Irvine.
The University seal is not downloadable. All requests must be submitted through the Trademark Use Request Form.
Athletics Identity
Concordia’s athletic teams are now known as the Golden Eagles, reflecting a refreshed and unified athletic identity. The golden eagle strengthens alignment between academic and athletic branding and distinguishes Concordia within NCAA Division II. The mascot refresh reinforces a bold, confident visual presence while maintaining consistency with the University brand.
Athletics logo requests should be directed to the Athletics Information Director. Official athletics branding must follow the Athletics Style Guide.
Marketing Campaign: Freedom to Explore
The Freedom to Explore campaign introduces Concordia’s renewed brand and positioning to the marketplace. Featuring Concordia students, alumni, and faculty, the campaign highlights the University’s dynamic community and is deployed across digital platforms, streaming media, social channels, and other marketing outlets.
Style Guide
The Concordia Style Guide ensures consistent and appropriate use of University branding across all media.
Color Palette
Primary:
Gold (PMS 1235C / #FDB724)
Green (PMS 357C / #004C23)
Secondary:
Black (#000000)
Light Gray (#EEEEEE)
White (#FFFFFF)
Dark Gray (#444444)
Typography
Headlines and Callouts: Source Serif Pro
Body Copy: Source Sans Pro (multiple weights and styles)
Program Logos
Official Concordia program logos are available for approved use. If a requested program logo is not listed, requests may be submitted for review. All program logo use requires approval through the Trademark Use Request Form.
Trademark, Branding, and Use Guidelines
Concordia University Irvine is committed to protecting its trademarks, branding elements, and identifying markers. Approval is required for any use involving promotion, profit, or external audiences.
University trademarks include, but are not limited to:
- Names and wordmarks
- Logos and symbols
- Colors and visual identity
- Photography and imagery
Key requirements:
- University marks may not be altered
- Use must align with Concordia’s Christian mission and identity
- Prohibited associations include drugs, gambling, alcohol, and misaligned products
- Only licensed manufacturers may produce retail merchandise
- Co-branding requires formal approval
The University reserves the right to review, approve, or deny use of its marks at its sole discretion.
Name, Image & Likeness (NIL)
Concordia student-athletes may benefit from the use of their name, image, or likeness in compliance with NCAA and State of California regulations. Required NIL documentation must be completed prior to requesting University trademarks or branding elements.
Download Brand Resources
Official logos, program marks, and style guide materials are available through the Brand & Marketing Resources downloads. All usage must comply with University guidelines and be approved when required.
Requests & Approvals
All requests for use of Concordia University Irvine trademarks, branding elements, or identifying markers must be submitted via the Trademark Use Request Form. Please allow adequate time for review.