Franklin Pierce University is a private institution in Rindge, New Hampshire, founded in 1962 and named for the 14th U.S. President, the only president born in New Hampshire. The university’s visual identity consists of a logo, seal, crest, and wordmark, all of which are protected property of the university, along with the slogan “An Education That Matters.”[1]
Design and History
Franklin Pierce University maintains a formal visual identity policy that governs how its logo and wordmark may be used. The university’s official policy states that these two elements, the logo and wordmark, can be used together or independently depending on the medium.[2] The policy also expressly prohibits Franklin Pierce entities from using custom-designed logos or graphic symbols for identification, requiring them to affiliate with and support the University brand.[2]
The institution was chartered by the State of New Hampshire on November 14, 1962, as Franklin Pierce College.[1] In 2007, the college gained university status and was renamed Franklin Pierce University.[3] The university’s motto is “Ex Umbris Ad Lucem,” which the university describes as honoring its mission by “shining the light of learning.”[4]
The university’s athletic teams, known as the Ravens, use a separate set of marks. The athletics department distributes a primary logo and a Raven Head logo, each available in print and digital formats, along with an athletics style guide.[5]
Meaning and Symbolism
The official colors of Franklin Pierce University are Crimson and Grey. According to the university’s student handbook, these colors represent the university’s enduring spirit, with crimson symbolizing energy, determination, and pride, and grey signifying wisdom, balance, and integrity.[6] The university’s athletics department also lists Crimson and Gray as its official colors.[7]
The university’s motto, “Ex Umbris Ad Lucem,” appears in the institution’s official communications and is referenced in campus art, including a mural in Marcucella Hall that represents the allegory of the cave and the school motto.[8]
Typography and Design
Franklin Pierce University’s visual identity policy establishes formal guidelines for the university’s visual standards for design and application, including standard stationery sets available for each campus and center.[2] The university’s legal notice identifies the Logo, Seal, Crest, and Wordmark as distinct protected elements of the institutional identity.[1]
Logo Index is an independent educational archive covering logos, visual identities and graphic design history. All trademarks and brand assets remain the property of their respective owners.
