Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) is a private university specializing in aviation and aerospace education, with residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott, Arizona. The university’s visual identity centers on an eagle symbol paired with a wordmark, governed by an official brand standards manual that defines approved logo versions, color usage, and the university seal.
Design and History
The Embry-Riddle logo consists of two primary components: an eagle graphic and the university logotype. The eagle graphic, referred to in the university’s brand standards as the “symbol,” appears to the left of the logotype in the standard logo lockup [1]. The university seal, a separate element governed by the same standards manual, features a circular design with the words “EMBRY-RIDDLE” at top and “AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY” at bottom, encircling an eagle in flight with the date “1926” printed beneath its talons [2].
The university’s brand guidelines also reference an “Eagle Icon” as a distinct element within the broader identity system, with watermarks available for download through the official brand guidelines [3]. The institutional flag is white with the blue and gold logo [4].
Meaning and Symbolism
The eagle serves as the university’s mascot and is the central figure in both the logo symbol and the seal [2]. The date “1926” incorporated into the seal references the university’s founding year [2]. The university’s official colors are identified in the athletics brand standards as “Unrivaled Blue” and “Sunrise Yellow” [5].
Typography and Design
According to the university’s brand standards manual, when the logo is used in color, the logotype should always appear in PMS 287 blue [1]. The same manual specifies that the eagle symbol can be reproduced in PMS 287 blue as an approved color option [1]. The brand standards document also includes specifications for the university seal, typography, and brand consistency requirements [1].
The university’s brand system includes multiple approved logo versions, with guidelines covering color additions, reverse treatments, and unacceptable logo variations [1]. College co-branded wordmarks are available upon request from the university’s Creative Strategy and Brand Management office [3].
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