All logos, seals, names, symbols, and slogans associated with, and used by, Vanderbilt University are trademarks and are the exclusive property of the University. Reproduction and use of these marks must be approved by the Office of Brand Engagement and Governance. This includes all merchandise (e.g., T-shirts, mugs, uniforms) that are used for internal use, sale, or promotional giveaway. Students may contact the Office of Brand Engagement and Governance at brandengagement@vanderbilt.edu. Policy governing the use of trademarks in URLs and acquisition of domain names can be found on the VUIT website. Policy governing the use of Vanderbilt’s official marks can be found on the Office of Brand Engagement and Governance website.
The use of the official University logo is limited to University departments, schools, and the Undergraduate Honor Council. Registered Student Organization may use the RSO mark or Vanderbilt Spirit logos as described below and which can be found on the Student Organizations, Leadership, and Service webpage. Club sports registered with the University have authorization from the Office of Brand Engagement and Governance to use the Primary Athletic V logo. All students and student organizations are expected to comply with the appropriate use of University trademarks.
The official Vanderbilt University Registered Student Organization mark, which incorporates the official University logo, is designed for use by Registered Student Organizations on notices and products. The use of these marks is limited to Registered Student Organizations and cannot be used by individuals or unrecognized groups. Registered Student Organizations may also use specified official Vanderbilt spirit marks, including the Anchor, Mr. C, and the Hand VU symbol, and the name “Vanderbilt University,” or titles indicating institutional affiliation, such as “Vandy,” “Black and Gold,” “VU,” or “Commodore,” for purposes generally consistent with the organizations’ purposes and their usual activities or to identify themselves as campus groups (such as the Vanderbilt International Student Association).
Use of the University’s Registered Student Organization mark, spirit marks, name, or titles indicating institutional affiliation should be consistent with Communications and Marketing’s Internal Use Licensing Policies. No organization is authorized to make either contractual commitments or binding statements on behalf of the University. The Registered Student Organization mark, spirit marks, and University name or titles indicating institutional affiliation should not be used in association with a private business or used in a manner that might associate or imply endorsements by the University of an outside business, product, or political candidate. For example, statements or slogans such as "Vanderbilt Backs Libertarians" may not be used by organizations unless they have been authorized to speak for the University.
The unauthorized use or imitation of any official Vanderbilt stationery, logos, or marks is prohibited. University logos and marks must not be altered in any fashion, and it is not permissible to create logos for a group or organization using Vanderbilt logos without authorization by the Office of Brand Engagement and Governance.