UNC BRAND IDENTITY

Style Guide University of Northern Colorado

Updated March 2018
Version 1.8
UNC Style Guide Usage

People face a storm of messages and visual images every day—on an ever-growing array of What’s inside:
devices and mediums. That can make it challenging to be heard, seen and remembered. The
Introduction 2
University of Northern Colorado’s visual identity communicates our brand concisely and
UNC Logo System 3
reflects our unique Colorado location. Logo Use 3
Logo Color Options 4
Adhering to these graphic standards help us connect with target audiences and strengthens
Single Elements 5
credibility locally and globally. Used consistently, it communicates a message and becomes Academic Logo Lockups 7
recognized quickly. Collegiate Logo Lockups 11
Logo Quick Reference Guide 13
This style guide is a reference tool for campus communicators. These guidelines are in
Unit Identifiers 14
place to help all departments apply a consistent brand look to all UNC print and web Using the Logos 15
communications. Minimum Size Guidelines 15
Clear Space Guidelines 16
Graphic standards outline the correct usage for UNC brand elements such as the UNC Scaling the Logo 17
logos, color palette and typefaces. Background Considerations 17
Unacceptable Uses 18
In addition to providing guidance for consistent application of the university’s brand University Seal 20
standards, this style guide provides flexibility to ensure your communication is appropriate Diversity Statement 20
for the intended audience. Social Media Graphics 21
Color Palette 22
The UNC Brand Identity Style Guide, which is effective May 2015 and replaces previous Web Color Palette 24
editions of the Style Guides, is university policy and full compliance aligns all university Print and Electronic Media Palette 25
departments for a cohesive branding effort. Color Family Suggestions 26
Typography 27
Print 27
Web/electronic Media 29
Email Signatures 30
Name Tags 30

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  2

UNC Logo System

Logo Use Logo Lingo

Our logo is one of the most visually recognizable identifiers to our students, faculty Our new logo system is a comprehensive menu
and staff, as well as the local and global community. Consistent and correct usage of of many different parts. Use this glossary to help
our logo and companion elements is the key to reinforcing this message and making clarify usage and application.
our identity powerful and unmistakable.
UNC Brand Identity Package
Included in this guide, and available for download from unco.edu/universityrelations Refers to all elements of our brand, including
are the approved logo elements and lockups available for use. These are the only the logo system, typography, color palette, etc.
acceptable iterations of our logo, and absolutely no alterations, changes or alternate Logo System
lockups will be permitted. If you have any questions about the use of the logo or its The entirety of our logo marks and lockups.
elements, please don’t hesitate to call Creative Services in University Relations at
970-351-2331. We’re happy to help with any graphic or web design questions or Wordmark Logo
assistance you may need. Refers to “University of Northern Colorado” logo
wordmark.
We’ve worked hard to provide a large array of logo lockup options to fit every need,
as well as college and departmental identifiers. These identifiers must be provided Acronym Logo
to you from Creative Services. To receive yours please fill out a UR Request Form at The “UNC” logo mark.
unco.edu/universityrelations. Mascot Logo
Our Bear graphic logo. While past Bear heads
We’ve also included examples of unacceptable logo uses. Our goal is to create a
have been reserved for athletic use only, our
strong, unified visual identity for UNC and this is best achieved when all university
refreshed Bear mascot is used for both athletics
departments follow the logo and branding guidelines closely and accurately.
and academics.

The official University of Northern Colorado Bear mascot logo, “University Logo Lockups
of Northern Colorado” wordmark and “UNC” acronym mark, and any Refers to the approved combinations of these
lockups of these elements, are protected trademarks by the university and separate logo elements.
are never allowed to be customized or altered in any way.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  3

UNC Logo System: Logo Color Options
Multiple logo lockups and color versions are available for download at unco.edu/universityrelations. We have provided
files in many different color variations, so you can find the one that works best for your needs. Be sure to use the
provided correct color version of the logo. Do not simply change the colors of a logo, as subtle spacing adjustments have
been made to ensure each logo is correct for the intended background.

B: White Type Logos

example shown:
A: Full Color Logos 10_UNC_WM+bear_block_wh

example shown: Full color Bear, with white

09_UNC_WM+bear_block type. For use on dark colored
backgrounds. “_wh” is indicated
Full color logo, no color as the color in the file name. In
indicator is added to these logos. the Style Guide, this option is
(“_blue” is indicated where the shown with a blue background,
only color used in the logo is for demonstrative purposes only,
blue). file has no background.

*Available in .eps and .png only

C: Black/white Logos D: Reversed Logos

example shown: example shown:
45_UNC_WM+bear_block_k 46_UNC_WM+bear_block_rev
Black logo with white White logo with no background
background behind the Bear is referred to as “reversed” and
head for ease of recognition. For indicated with a “_rev” in the
use on white backgrounds. Best file name. Best for 1-color use on
logo when “one color/black” solid dark backgrounds, such as
logo is needed. Color indicator water bottles or dark t-shirts.
is “_k”.
*Available in .eps and .png only

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  4

UNC Logo System: Single Elements

Logo Elements File Types

Logos are available in the colors shown as well as black and white, and reversed (all-white) versions Several file types are available for your use
where a one-color logo is needed. See page 4 for explanations on when to use each logo. for each logo element and lockup. Use the
guidelines below to help you choose the correct
file for your needs. File names appear next to
UNC Wordmark each logo mark, and are available with .eps, .jpg
and .png extensions.

01_UNC_Wordmark_blue .eps files

Black: 39_UNC_Wordmark_k Use these for print pieces (including banners,
tablecloths, etc.), apparel and promotional items.
Background is transparent, color formula is
CMYK. These files are infinitely scalable, so this
02_UNC_Wordmark_wh
is the file type to use when creating a banner or
large item when a large logo is needed. See page
17 for advice on how to properly scale the logos
without distortion.

.jpg files
Jpg files have a white background. RGB color
formula and low resolution make these best for
UNC Bear Mascot web or on-screen use, not print.

.png files
With a transparent background, these files are
ideal for web and other on-screen use, as well
as the preferred file type for Microsoft products
(Word, PowerPoint). Color formula is RGB.

For more explanation of the CMYK/RGB color

formulas and their uses, please see page 22 in the
color section.
03_UNC_BearMascot 04_UNC_BearMascot_blue
Black: 40_UNC_BearMascot_k
Reversed: 41_UNC_BearMascot_rev

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  5

UNC Logo System: Single Elements

Logo File Name Guide

UNC Acronym Logo

01_UNC_WM+bear_vert_blue.eps

Each file is numbered for easy identification and

05_UNC_UNCacronym_blue reference. A Quick Reference Guide is provided on
Black: 42_UNC_UNCacronym_k page 13 for easily finding the file you need.
After the number, you’ll see UNC.
Next section is the elements that make up the
lockup, in this example, wordmark (WM) and the
Bear mascot.
Next comes the lockup arrangement: horizontal,
vertical or block (not applicable on all files).
Next up is the color: wh (white type), k (black) or
rev (all white). See page 4 for further explanation of
the color options.
06_UNC_UNCacronym_wh
Last will be the file extension, .eps, .png or .jpg.
See page 5 for file use explanation.

Logo Color Usage Tips

When placing the logo on a white- or light-
colored background, use the UNC blue logo
versions. On darker backgrounds, the white
versions will work best.

Careful consideration of logo placement on a

photo or other busy background is essential.
A note about logo color options Color manipulation of the photograph may be
We have provided files in many different color variations, so you can find
necessary to create an appropriate background
the one that works best for your needs. Be sure to use the provided correct
color version of the logo. Do not simply change the colors of a logo, as subtle so the logo doesn’t get lost or fade into the
spacing adjustments have been made to ensure each logo is correct for the background.
intended background. See page 4 for full explanations of color options.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  6

UNC Logo System: Academic Logo Lockups

UNC Wordmark + Bear Lockups

07_UNC_WM+bear_vert 09_UNC_WM+bear_block 11_UNC_WM+bear_horiz

Black: 43_UNC_WM+bear_vert_k Black: 45_UNC_WM+bear_block_k Black: 47_UNC_WM+bear_horiz_k
Reversed: 44_UNC_WM+bear_vert_rev Reversed: 46_UNC_WM+bear_block_rev Reversed: 48_UNC_WM+bear_horiz_rev

08_UNC_WM+bear_vert_wh 10_UNC_WM+bear_block_wh 12_UNC_WM+bear_horiz_wh

A note about logo color options

We have provided files in many different color variations, so you can find the
one that works best for your needs. Be sure to use the provided correct color
version of the logo. Do not simply change the colors of a logo, as subtle spacing
adjustments have been made to ensure each logo is correct for the intended
background. See page 4 for full explanations of color options.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  7

UNC Logo System: Academic Logo Lockups

UNC Wordmark + UNC Acronym Lockups

15_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz
Black: 51_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz_k 17_UNC_WM+UNC_vert
Reversed: 52_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz_rev Black: 53_UNC_WM+UNC_vert_k
Reversed: 54_UNC_WM+UNC_vert_rev

13_UNC_WM+UNC_block
Black: 49_UNC_WM+UNC_block_k
Reversed: 50_UNC_WM+UNC_block_rev

14_UNC_WM+UNC_block_wh 16_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz_wh 18_UNC_WM+UNC_vert_wh

A note about logo color options

We have provided files in many different color variations, so you can find the
one that works best for your needs. Be sure to use the provided correct color
version of the logo. Do not simply change the colors of a logo, as subtle spacing
adjustments have been made to ensure each logo is correct for the intended
background. See page 4 for full explanations of color options.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  8

UNC Logo System: Logo Lockups

UNC Bear Mascot + UNC Acronym Lockups

19_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz 21_UNC_bear+UNC_vert
Black: 55_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz_k Black: 57_UNC_bear+UNC_vert_k
Reversed: 56_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz_rev Reversed: 58_UNC_bear+UNC_vert_rev

A note about logo color options

We have provided files in many different color variations,
so you can find the one that works best for your needs.
Be sure to use the provided correct color version of the
logo. Do not simply change the colors of a logo, as subtle
spacing adjustments have been made to ensure each logo
is correct for the intended background. See page 4 for full
explanations of color options.

20_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz_wh 22_UNC_bear+UNC_vert_wh

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  9

UNC Logo System: Special-Use Lockup
The special-use lockup contains all three elements, the Bear mascot logo, UNC acronym logo and
the full wordmark. Due to the size variance between elements, and to keep this lockup readable, it is
never to be used any smaller than four inches wide. This is a great logo option for bumper stickers, car
decals or t-shirt graphics.

Minimum size 4˝ wide

23_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz
Black: 59_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz_k
Reversed: 60_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz_rev

24_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz_wh

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  10

UNC Logo System: Collegiate Lockups
Collegiate lockups shown on this page contain our Bear mascot logo or our UNC acronym logo along with
UNC’s very own Greeley typeface. These lockups may be used on promotional items, athletics, clubs and
Rec Center uses, but should never be used when any academic department or program is identified.

25_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_vert 29_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_horiz
Black: 61_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_vert_k 27_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_block Black: 65_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_horiz_k
Reversed: 62_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_vert_rev Black: 63_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_block_k Reversed: 66_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_horiz_rev
Reversed: 64_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_block_rev

26_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_vert_wh 28_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_block_wh 30_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_horiz_wh

A note about logo color options

We have provided files in many different color variations, so you can find the one that works best for your needs.
Be sure to use the provided correct color version of the logo. Do not simply change the colors of a logo, as subtle
spacing adjustments have been made to ensure each logo is correct for the intended background. See page 4 for full
explanations of color options.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  11

UNC Logo System: Collegiate Lockups
Collegiate lockups shown on this page contain our Bear mascot logo or our UNC acronym logo along with
UNC’s very own Greeley typeface. These lockups may be used on promotional items, athletics, clubs and
Rec Center uses, but should never be used when any academic department or program is identified.

33_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_horiz
Black: 69_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_horiz_k 35_UNC_Collegiate_UNCbears
Reversed: 70_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_horiz_rev Black: 71_UNC_Collegiate_UNCbears_k
31_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_block
Black: 67_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_block_k
Reversed: 68_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_block_rev

32_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_block_wh 34_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_horiz_wh 36_UNC_Collegiate_UNCbears_wh 38_UNC_Collegiate_BearsWM_wh

A note about logo color options

We have provided files in many different color variations, so you can find the one that works best for
your needs. Be sure to use the provided correct color version of the logo. Do not simply change the colors
of a logo, as subtle spacing adjustments have been made to ensure each logo is correct for the intended
background. See page 4 for full explanations of color options.
37_UNC_Collegiate_BearsWM
Black: 72_UNC_Collegiate_BearsWM_k

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  12

Logo Quick Reference Guide
Print or save this page for a quick reference guide to UNC logo file names and numbers. All color variations for each logo are listed.

01_UNC_Wordmark_blue 03_UNC_BearMascot 05_UNC_UNCacronym_blue 07_UNC_WM+bear_vert 09_UNC_WM+bear_block

02_UNC_Wordmark_wh 04_UNC_BearMascot_blue 06_UNC_UNCacronym_wh 08_UNC_WM+bear_vert_wh 10_UNC_WM+bear_block_wh
Black: 39_UNC_Wordmark_k Black: 40_UNC_BearMascot_k Black: 42_UNC_UNCacronym_k Black: 43_UNC_WM+bear_vert_k Black: 45_UNC_WM+bear_block_k
Reversed: 41_UNC_BearMascot_rev Reversed: 44_UNC_WM+bear_vert_rev Reversed: 46_UNC_WM+bear_block_rev

11_UNC_WM+bear_horiz 13_UNC_WM+UNC_block 15_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz 17_UNC_WM+UNC_vert 19_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz

12_UNC_WM+bear_horiz_wh 14_UNC_WM+UNC_block_wh 16_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz_wh 18_UNC_WM+UNC_vert_wh 20_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz_wh
Black: 47_UNC_WM+bear_horiz_k Black: 49_UNC_WM+UNC_block_k Black: 51_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz_k Black: 53_UNC_WM+UNC_vert_k Black: 55_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz_k
Reversed: 48_UNC_WM+bear_horiz_rev Reversed: 50_UNC_WM+UNC_block_rev Reversed: 52_UNC_WM+UNC_horiz_rev Reversed: 54_UNC_WM+UNC_vert_rev Reversed: 56_UNC_bear+UNC_horiz_rev

21_UNC_bear+UNC_vert 23_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz 25_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_vert 27_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_block 29_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_horiz

22_UNC_bear+UNC_vert_wh 24_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz_wh 26_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_vert_wh 28_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_block_wh 30_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_horiz_wh
Black: 57_UNC_bear+UNC_vert_k Black: 59_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz_k Black: 61_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_ Black: 63_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_ Black: 65_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_
Reversed: 58_UNC_bear+UNC_vert_rev Reversed: 60_UNC_bear+UNC+WM_horiz_ vert_k block_k horiz_k
rev Reversed: 62_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_ Reversed: 64_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_ Reversed: 66_UNC_Collegiate_WM+Bear_
vert_rev block_rev horiz_rev

31_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_block 33_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_horiz 35_UNC_Collegiate_UNCbears 37_UNC_Collegiate_BearsWM

32_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_block_wh 34_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_horiz_wh 36_UNC_Collegiate_UNCbears_wh 38_UNC_Collegiate_BearsWM_wh
Black: 67_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_ Black: 69_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_ Black: 71_UNC_Collegiate_UNCbears_k Black: 72_UNC_Collegiate_BearsWM_k
block_k horiz_k
Reversed: 68_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_ Reversed: 70_UNC_Collegiate_UNC+WM_
block_rev horiz_rev

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  13

 UNC Logo System: Unit Identifiers
Unit identifiers are available for any college or department on campus. Unit Identifier Usage
We are happy to provide your campus unit
or department with your own identifiers.
To request one, fill out a UR Request Form at
ID1 ID2 unco.edu/universityrelations, and let us know
the ID numbers you’d like.

College of Education Use the full identifier including “University of

and Behavioral Sciences Northern Colorado” in any print publications,
and on promotional items when it fits.

The horizontal identifiers (ID7 and ID8) are to

be used on promotional items only when the full
ID3 College of Natural identifier will not fit, such as on a pen or other
College of Performing ID4 and Health Sciences small item.
and Visual Arts
ALL departments, units, clubs, activities and
institutes should use their new UNC identifier as
their official logo. For clarification please contact
Creative Services.

For questions on which identifier should be

ID5
ID6 used in certain instances, feel free to contact
Creative Services at 351-2331.
College of Natural and
Health Sciences

College of Performing
ID7 ID8
Extended Campus and Visual Arts

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  14

UNC Logo System: Using the Logos
Minimum Logo Size Sizing Logos
To make sure our logo is always readable, we have recommended minimum sizes There is no exact formula to use when choosing what size
that will maintain logo integrity. the logo should be on your piece, just strive for a visual
balance between the logo and the overall piece. Below are a
few general guidelines to help you determine approximate
logo sizes.

Postcard: 8.5 x 11:

Logo about 1.5˝ Logo about 2˝
wide. 1˝ if using a wide. 1.5˝ if using a
“block” version. “block” version.
1.75″ 1.5″

11 x 17 poster: Rack Card:

Logo about 3˝ wide. 2.25˝ Logo about
if using a “block” version. 2˝ wide.
1.0″ 1.0″ 1.5˝ if using
a “block”
version.

1.75″ .75″

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  15

 UNC Logo System: Using the Logos
Maintain Clear Space Around Logo
Maintaining a clear area around the extreme points of the logo (free from other text, imagery or logos) helps ensure our
logo’s visibility and clarity. We use a relative measuring system, meaning the clear space measurement is always based off
of the exact logo size you are working with, so an appropriate amount of clear space can be determined regardless of the
size of logo. Use the guidelines below to calculate the minimum clear space that must surround the UNC logos.

fig.3
fig.2

fig.1

Step 1 NOTE
Determine the extreme points of the logo mark (shown here with a blue dotted box). • To achieve proper clear space, use these guidelines as a minimum
amount of space. More is fine.
Step 2
• When you are trying to determine clear space for a lockup that
Use the appropriate measurement and calculate your clear space, starting from the edge of those
contains a logo or combination of elements not pictured here (ex.
extreme points and measuring outwards.
UNC + wordmark), use the measurement that will give the maximum
• L
 ockups containing the wordmark, or the wordmark on its own: Use the measurement of the amount of clearspace, as the example below demonstrates. In this
height of the N in Northern Colorado (fig.1) example, the “U” measurement is larger than the “N” measurement,
• L
 ockups containing UNC or the UNC acronym logo on it’s own: Use the measurement of the so we used the “U” clear space measurement.
width of the first stroke of the U (fig.2)
• T
 he Bear mascot logo: Use the measurement of the width of the Bear’s nose (fig.3)
The examples above demonstrate the appropriate amount of clear space with a green dotted box.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  16

UNC Logo System: Using the Logos
Scaling Logo Up or Down
To change the logo size (or any art or photo element), be sure to size it proportionally so
as not to stretch it out of its original shape. To do so, hold the shift key as you drag the
bounding box corner to the size you need.

Placing the Logo Over a Photo or Background Element

When placing the logo over a background photo or other element, make sure the logo is
clearly visible and doesn’t get overpowered by the background. This may mean choosing
a different photo, using the white-type version of the logo or repositioning the logo so it
rests on a less busy area of the photo. Also be aware of not covering up a critical area of
the photo. Below are examples of placing the logo over a non-critical photo area, on an
area that highlights the logo well.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  17

UNC Logo System: Unacceptable Uses

Incorrect Logo Use Logo phase-out

Logo marks and lockups have been carefully designed as unified elements to be The logos below are being phased out of use
visually balanced and represent our brand appropriately. They’re the correct color by UNC. Please do not use any of the logo
builds, and include the right elements. No alteration or customization of these marks (in any color) or combination of any of
marks is allowed. Included are some examples of incorrect logo usage. Some other the marks below on your materials or websites.
examples of unacceptable alterations include: Replace old graphics with the new logo system
through attrition as you order new materials.
• Substituting fonts
• Outlining or inlining
• Distorting or applying special effects
• Changing the relative size or positioning of the elements
• Combining elements other than the approved lockups
• Filling the logo with a pattern or photo element
• Using the logo as a watermark
• Using the logo as part of a sentence or phrase
• Reproducing the logo in colors other than the official approved colors
• Placing the logo on a background that distracts or overpowers the logo

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  18

UNC Logo System: Unacceptable Uses

The rules shown below apply to every UNC logo mark and logo lockup, even if not
explicitly illustrated here.

Do not change the color of any logo elements. Do not reverse the color of the bear. If reverse Never stretch the logo out of proportion
image is desired, use proper reversed logo file.
For tips on how to scale the logo appropriately to
retain the correct proportions, see page 17.

UNIVERSITY OF

NORTHERN
COLORADO

Do not change the typeface. Do not add an outline to any part of the logo. Do not combine the logo elements in any way.

Extended Campus

Do not change the relative size relationships of the Do not create a unit or departmental identifier or Do not rearrange any part of the lockups provided.
logo elements. club logo out of official UNC logos. Request your
unit identifier at unco.edu/universityrelations.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  19

UNC University Seal

The University seal was developed for use on official university documents including
diplomas, formal invitations, and formal publications such as the commencement program.
The seal should not be used for any other purpose. Permission must be secured in advance
from University Relations, with the President’s Office providing final authority.

UNC Diversity Statement

The University of Northern Colorado is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution

that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability,
creed, religion, sexual preference or veteran status. For more information or issues of equity
or fairness or claims of discrimination contact the UNC AA/ EEO/ Title IX Officer at UNC
Human Resource Services, Carter Hall 2002, Greeley, CO 80639 or call 970-351-2718.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  20

Graphics for Social Media Use
The following profile picture icons are available, each sized for use on:

Facebook (fb) 180 x 180

Twitter (tw) 400 x 400

Instagram (ig) 180 x 180

Flickr (fl) 300 x 300

LinkedIn (li) 200 x 200

YouTube (yt) 800 x 800

UNC_SocialBear_fb.png

For social media icon questions, please contact

Allison Williams, [email protected].

UNC_SocialUNC_fb.png UNC_SocialUNCblue_fb.png

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  21

Color Palette
Official UNC Color Palette Color Lingo
Color is an important part of our identity. Using our UNC color palette throughout web We specify colors in several different ways,
and printed materials will retain our visual consistency which is essential to a strong depending on the intended use. Use the definitions
brand identity. below to help you navigate the color vernacular so
you can choose the correct color formulas for your
We have a color palette specifically for web use, as well as a separate palette for print or materials.
electronic media (any on-screen application other than the website). These palettes were
created to maintain UNC’s strong visual consistency, while providing secondary accent PMS
colors to allow for visual interest, color-matching to your subject matter, and allowing for An acronym for Pantone Matching System®, this color
the use of color hierarchy. system is also often referred to as “spot” colors. This
color system is for print jobs when an exact color
Use the guidelines on the next pages to help you determine the appropriate color match of our blue or gold is necessary.
proportions for your materials.
CMYK
CMYK (or “process”) refers to the 4 ink colors that
Tips on using color in your UNC materials are used to create every other color of the rainbow.
Our primary colors are UNC Bears Blue and UNC Bears Gold, so start with one or both Those colors are cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y)
of these colors when you are choosing your palette. and black (K). This is the color system used for
print pieces, and both solid colors and photographs
Use support (secondary) colors sparingly, to accent your design. Choose only one, two or
should be converted to CMYK color for printing.
three support colors as to not overwhelm and create color confusion.
RGB
Think about your subject matter when deciding on support colors, and choose colors RGB (red, green, blue) refers to colors used on
that link your content subject matter to the visual look of the piece. screen only (web, phone, video, etc.). Photos and
Avoid color combinations that bring other regional universities or colleges to mind. solid colors should be in RGB when intended for
on-screen viewing.
A note about color HEX
Colors will appear differently on each computer monitor, and will vary from monitor to Hex refers to the hexadecimal number assigned to
printed piece. To ensure print material color consistency, be sure to use the CMYK color solid colors for use on the web. Hex formulas will
formulas presented on the following pages. For web color consistency, use the RGB or appear as #xxxxxx.
HEX formulas.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  22

Color Palette
Choosing the correct color palette for your needs

UNC website Other electronic media Printed materials

Email blasts
PowerPoint
Digital newsletters

Use the “Color Palette for Web” Use the “Color Palette for Use the “Color Palette for
on page 24. Web colors are Print and Electronic Media” on Print and Electronic Media” on
stated in Hex values. page 25. Choose the RGB or page 25. Choose the CMYK
Hex formulas for any digital or PMS (spot color only)
media you are producing. formulas for any materials
that will be printed.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  23

Color Palette for Web
UNC Web colors were chosen to be easy Primary Palette: UNC Blue and Gold
on the eye when viewed on-screen, while
maintaining brand identity. These are the
only colors allowed to be used on the website UNC Bears UNC Bears
Blue Gold Blue Gray
templates provided.

Hex #013c65 Hex #f6b000 Hex #60697a

Light Gray Honeycomb Butter

Hex #ebebeb Hex #c7ac67 Hex #f5e3b1

Secondary Palette: Accent Colors

These colors are primarily for type, or when a darker shade of one of the above
colors is needed.

Antique
Ash Gold Dark Gray Smoke

Hex #666 Hex #837543 Hex #333 Hex #999

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  24

Color Palette for Print and Electronic Media
Primary Palette: UNC Blue and Gold Secondary Palette: Accent Colors
Blue and gold are University of Northern Limit the number of secondary colors to no more than three per layout/design. Remember to pair them with
Colorado’s main colors, and the colors UNC Bears Blue. On the following page are some color combination suggestions. Tints of the colors can be
that should be used most of the time. used when needed, and examples are shown below.
For a nice visual color balance, we like
designs to use the proportion of 80 UNC Mountain Blue UNC Ocean Blue UNC Smoky Blue
percent blue to 20 percent gold. PMS 5405 PMS 5483 PMS 5503
CMYK 74/47/33/7 CMYK 72/35/39/5 CMYK 43/17/24/0
75% 50% RGB 79/116/139 75% 50% RGB 79/133/142 75% 50% RGB 148/183/186
20% HEX #4f748b HEX #4f858e HEX #94b7ba

UNC Sky Blue UNC Olive Green UNC Sap Green

80%
PMS 2204* PMS 7491 PMS 2305*
CMYK 31/13/11/0 CMYK 54/33/96/12 CMYK 44/23/100/2
75% 50% RGB 175/199/212 75% 50% RGB 123/134/58 75% 50% RGB 154/164/57
HEX #afc7d4 HEX #7b863a HEX #9aa439
UNC Bears Blue
PMS 295 UNC Walnut UNC Boysenberry UNC Aqua
CMYK 100/69/8/54 PMS 732 PMS 7642 PMS 7472
RGB 1/45/91 CMYK 39/74/99/48 CMYK 43/89/50/31 CMYK 63/7/34/0
HEX #013c65 75% 50% RGB 100/54/21 75% 50% RGB 132/53/83 75% 50% RGB 89/183/177
HEX #643615 HEX #843553 HEX #59b7b1

UNC Bears Gold NOTE: UNC Persimmon UNC Pumpkin UNC Slate Gray
New Gold as of
PMS 1235 C May, 2015 PMS 7598 PMS 716 PMS Cool Gray 8
122 U
CMYK 17/86/99/6 CMYK 3/64/100/1 CMYK 48/40/38/4
CMYK 0/28/89/0
75% 50% RGB 195/70/40 75% 50% RGB 233/120/34 75% 50% RGB 138/138/141
RGB 254/189/54
HEX #c34628 HEX #e97822 HEX #8a8a8d
HEX #f6b000

UNC Butter Yellow UNC Sand

A note about color conversion PMS 7403 PMS 7562
These formulas have been designed the for optimal
color use in each of the intended mediums. Therefore, *As of April, 2015, these PMS colors are CMYK 5/15/57/0 CMYK 25/37/73/3
some of these color formulas will not translate to not available in the Pantone® palette 75% 50% RGB 242/211/131 75% 50% RGB 190/153/92
stated color from CMYK to RGB to Hex in your in Adobe CC software. Use the CMYK
HEX #f2d383 HEX #be995c
computer program. Please use the formulas above to (print) or RGB (electronic media)
achieve the correct color. formulas instead.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  25

Color Family Suggestions

Combining Primary and Secondary Colors

Below are some examples of color families built from UNC primary and secondary color
palettes. Remember to use secondary colors sparingly, and avoid any color combinations that
strongly reference other colleges or universities. UNC Bears Blue is the primary color anchor in
each of these palettes, as it should be in any UNC materials produced.

3-color groupings

UNC Aqua UNC Sky Blue Sky Blue Sap Butter UNC Slate Smoky Mountain Walnut Persim- Aqua Olive Slate
Bears Bears Green Yellow Bears Gray Blue Blue mon Green Gray
Gold Gold Gold

4-color groupings

Ocean Butter Persim- Pumpkin UNC Butter Sap Aqua Boysen- Sand Sky Blue Walnut Sap Walnut Mountain
Blue Yellow mon Bears Yellow Green berry Green Blue
50% Gold 50% 50%

Persim- Sky Blue Olive Pumpkin Persim- Aqua UNC Walnut Aqua Smoky Boysen- Slate Sky Blue Slate Olive
mon 50% Green mon Bears Blue berry Gray Gray Green
50% Gold

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  26

Typography for Print
University of Northern Colorado’s typographic identity consists of two main typefaces for print
Type Tips
materials, as well as a separate family of typefaces for use on the web.
Display typeface refers to type that is specifically used
for headlines or small amounts of non-body copy (such
UNC’s Main Typefaces: Print as a player’s name on the back of a sports jersey).

Berkeley Body copy is defined as the main information on a

Berkeley is a traditional and classic serifed typeface, used primarily for body copy and some page, usually found in paragraph form. Because of the
subheads, captions and footnotes. This typeface’s design makes it an ideal type for reading amount of text and the detailed nature of information
large amounts of copy. Ideal body copy sizes of Berkeley range from 10 pt/13 pt of leading, conveyed, a highly readable typeface is preferable.
to 12 pt/15 pt of leading. University style is to not break words at the end of lines. Do not Hyphenation and Justification
force justify body copy. Paragraphs may be started with a small indent or space between each Hyphenation at the end of a line is to be avoided in
paragraph, but not both. body copy and headline copy whenever possible. If
hyphenation cannot be avoided, do not have hyphens
As Berkeley is best at smaller sizes, we suggest not using it larger than 18 pt.
appear on consecutive lines of copy.
Berkeley is available as book, medium, bold and black, with italic versions of each. Book and
Left justify (left-align) body copy whenever possible.
medium are the recommended weights used.
Left aligned copy is the easiest for our eyes to follow
Substitution and will therefore make your copy easier to read.
If Berkeley is not available on the computer you are using, consider substituting Adobe
Garamond, Baskerville or Times New Roman. Centering text is not a good practice when working
with large amounts of copy, and should be reserved
Helvetica Neue LT Std for small bits of information, such as date, time and
location on an event poster. Body copy should not be
Helvetica Neue is a sans serif type family with a large variety of weight and
centered.
width options. These different weights (light, medium, heavy, etc.) as well as widths
(condensed, regular or extended) provide a vast library of type options Fully justified type (type that stretches from margin
to help match type to design. Helvetica and other sans serif typefaces work to margin to create an even block, often seen in
well as headlines, callouts or captions, and other smaller amounts of copy. newspaper columns) should never be used. This type
We recommend not using Helvetica for large amounts of copy. Helvetica can work well at of alignment creates uneven and gaping word spacing
small sizes (no less than 8 pt for body copy) to large, display or headline type. that makes reading copy cumbersome and difficult.

Substitution
If Helvetica is not available to you, consider using Arial.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  27

Typography for Print
UNC’s Specialty Typefaces: Print
Specialty and accent typefaces are allowed for use in print materials when
used sparingly, and only for display (i.e. headline) or similar graphic
element usage. Below is an example of an accent typeface used for
just the poster title. This typeface was carefully
chosen to enhance the subject matter of the event
and visually tie the poster elements together.

GREELEY
Greeley is the new, custom designed UNC typeface. This typeface
can be used for headlines or display copy only (use it sparingly)
and should never appear smaller than 18 pt. Don’t use Greeley for
pres ents
body copy. eatre
a Th
O p er
UNC

Other Accent Typefaces ES

erspera
N
CE

e tt
The use of accent typefaces for print materials is acceptable if used

S
A
Lin O
very sparingly, and only as a headline or graphic element. If using

OPER
an accent typeface in this manner, be thoughtful in the choice of
typeface to assure it coordinates well with your subject matter and
complements the piece’s design.
4
PRIL
R DAY, A 30 PM
U :
SAT 2 PM & 7 C
UCC ,
eatre
lps Th g,
el Ph
e missin
Hens is siv e goes ged.
m n
ed , a is cha as
notic an opera as diverse
ote is f s ,
lat e, a n tire plot o om opera to tragedy nd
er is e en es f r edy nd a
A lett ddenly th tures scen from com in the gra
u a ;
and s rogram fe Women t on paper
p
Our ff to Little y plot twis
r !
Falst xploit eve lled opera
a
e
we’ ll s thing ca
r io u
glo

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  28

Typography for Web and Electronic Media

UNC Main Typefaces: Web

UNC has an established style sheet created and managed through University Relations. In order to
ensure a global consistent brand identity for every page of our website, no modifications should be made
to any elements on your page. If you need an element not provided in our master style sheet, contact
University Relations.

Open Sans
Open Sans is used for the majority of text and headers on the website. It’s available in several
different weights. Please adhere to the current established web type styles when adding text to
your department website. Weights used are bold, regular and light.

Substitution
If Open Sans is not available to you, consider using Arial or Helvetica.

Aleo
Aleo is an accent only/headline typeface to be used sparingly and as suggested by established
web style sheets. Currently it is only being used on UNC’s and admissions’ home pages.

Accent Typefaces
Accent typefaces different from those stated above will not be acceptable for use on the web.
Adhering to the current design standards will ensure a cohesive and readable website that
reinforces the university’s brand standards.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  29

Email Signature
Email signatures files are available for download at unco.edu/universityrelations/brand-tools

Sender Name Sender Name

Title Title
Department Department

University of Northern Colorado

 Building
Address
Campus Box 00
University of Northern Colorado Greeley, CO 80639
Building
Address O: 000-000-0000
Campus Box 00 C: 000-000-0000
Greeley, CO 80639 F: 000-000-0000
unco.edu
O: 000-000-0000
C: 000-000-0000
F: 000-000-0000
unco.edu

Nametags
The name tag designs shown below are the approved designs to be used for any department on campus. Any deviation requested from the
designs below will be sent to University Relations pending approval. Updated March 2018.
Campus-wide designs Alumni and Development only designs Nametags (along with deskplates and
other engraved items) can be ordered
from:
K&K Laser Creations
[email protected]
970-330-2244
Award Alliance
[email protected]
970-351-6398

Plastic nametags for students are allowed. Both vendors have artwork for the student plastic nametags.

University of Northern Colorado Style Guide  •  30