Logos
Kean University is telling a powerful, unified story - Cougars Climb Higher - and consistency is key to making sure that story resonates with our students, families, partners and the public. When we all use consistent branding, it strengthens everyone’s message and helps build trust, recognition and pride.
Creating individual logos (even great ones!) can unintentionally fragment that story. We want the world to see one strong, connected Kean—not a mix of separate identities.
We’re happy to work with you to create branded materials that feel unique and exciting within our existing Kean brand identity. We have tools and templates to help make that process easy. This kind of initiative shows how invested you are in making an impact and we truly appreciate it. Let us know how we can support you!
The Kean University brandmark is the principal symbol of Kean University and must appear on all official University communications as it appears to the right. The primary, and preferred, version is the horizontal format (seal to the left, Kean to the right). A vertical format (seal centered over Kean) may be used in certain instances where the primary version does not fit. The seal may be used alone as a design element and the words Kean University may also be used without the seal, but only in the University approved fonts.
Our brandmark consists of 2 design elements:
1. Kean seal
2. KEAN logotype
The following elements must appear somewhere on all publications:
1. Kean seal
2. Kean University
3. 1000 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ 07083
4. website: www.kean.edu
5. Phone number – usually (908) 737-KEAN (5326) unless otherwise specified
To keep Kean’s brandmark looking its best, it should always appear in the correct colors and proportions. Avoid changing its shape or appearance, such as stretching, cropping, tilting, rotating or rearranging the elements.
The Kean seal, when used as a design element in conjunction with the brandmark, may be used in shades of gray or varying opacity, but the full brandmark should only be used in Kean blue, black or white. Always use official brandmark files. Do not recreate or retype the logotype.
To access and download approved logos, brandmarks, designs, photos, fonts, stationery or templates, go to: kean.edu/brand.
Spirit Mark / Athletics Identity
The Cougar “K” mark is used for spirit and athletic promotions. It should never replace the official seal or brandmark on University documents.
Guidelines
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Primary Usage: Cougar “K” with “Kean” underneath (Aachen font)
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Optional Line: Team or department name (DIN Black font)
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Primary Color: Pantone 540 (Kean Blue)
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Alternate Color: Pantone 284 (Light Blue), only if needed for contrast
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Do Not Use: The leaping cougar or “KU” monogram (both are retired)
The Spirit Mark may be used alone only when the Kean affiliation is obvious (e.g., on campus or the official athletics website).
Incorrect Usage (What to Avoid)
To maintain the integrity of the Kean brand, never alter the brandmark or spirit mark in the following ways:
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Do not stretch, distort, crop, tilt, or rotate the logo
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Do not use colors outside of the approved palette
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Do not use “KU” to refer to Kean, always use “Kean”
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Do not combine the seal with the athletics spirit mark
For questions, contact University Relations for design approval.
Apparel and Promotional Items
Kean University apparel and promotional items extend our brand into everyday use. Items such as T-shirts, tote bags, pens and magnets help reinforce a consistent look across all University events, including New Student Orientation, Family Day and Homecoming.
Use the spirit mark for items created for internal audiences that promote school pride. Reserve the official seal for formal materials or events.
When the imprint area is small, such as found on pens or pencils, you may use KEAN or KEAN UNIVERSITY instead of the seal. On round items, using the seal alone is appropriate to maximize visibility.
These guidelines apply to apparel and promotional items produced for official University giveaways. They do not apply to spirit wear made for student groups or items sold in the campus bookstore. For questions and for design approval, please contact University Relations before placing an order.
Conferences and Conventions
When representing Kean University at an external event, consistent and professional branding helps make a strong impression. Official branded materials such as tablecloths, banners and backdrops are available to borrow through the Office of University Relations.
Custom posters, signage or exhibit materials may also be created to highlight the University’s presence. To ensure availability, please contact University Relations at least 30 days in advance, as some items may take additional time to produce.
When requesting an exhibit design, be sure to include the approved budget from your dean or vice president.