Find answers to commonly asked questions.
Why are we announcing new brand standards?
Chancellor Robert Jones recognizes the importance of speaking with one voice to share the Illinois story of excellence and impact. He directed Strategic Communications and Marketing (formerly Public Affairs) to develop a comprehensive, universitywide brand messaging platform that is value driven and that reflects the prominence of the university. The guidance was developed in broad consultation with campus stakeholders and vetted by the University Marketing and Communications Advisory Council.
Why does the university need comprehensive brand guidelines? What are the benefits?
Our brand platform clearly describes to our stakeholders the promise we make when we invite them to engage with the university. By aligning messaging and visual identity to represent our brand promise, we provide every unit within the university a framework and foundation to showcase its unique attributes and contributions to that promise.
Is the university going to provide resources to help units implement the brand guidelines?
Yes. StratCom will be working with individual units to implement the brand guidelines by providing messaging, design and development support — especially for those units with the greatest needs and fewest resources. This approach will focus on thoughtful application rather than speeding through the process. Additionally, the brand website features templates and examples alongside guidance to help aid the transition.
When do these brand guidelines take effect? How long do I have to get in compliance?
Chancellor Robert Jones has officially launched the guidelines, so they are now in place and available for use. We expect units to begin implementing them in the coming months as they are able, with the understanding that some aspects will be easy to implement (e.g., email skins), while others might utilize more resources and time (e.g., websites).
Are the brand guidelines mandatory?
Units are expected to follow the brand guidelines. Units that choose not to follow the brand guidelines will not be featured or promoted on university-level marketing and communications channels such as illinois.edu and official university social media platforms.
Will there be more changes to the brand guidelines in the future?
These brand guidelines were created in broad consultation across campus with the goal of aligning on the core principles and messages. While there may be additional clarifications given in the coming months, there is no expectation of major changes in the foreseeable future.
What should I do if my college has more specific brand guidelines?
If you are a student, faculty or staff member with The Grainger College of Engineering, your campus-approved sub-brand guidance can be found on its marketing and communication page. Please use your college provided guidance, tools, templates and resources. For questions, contact grainger-marcom@illinois.edu.
If you are a student, faculty or staff member with Gies College of Business, your campus-approved sub-brand guidance can be found on its marketing and communications page. Please use your college-provided resources. For questions, contact marcom@business.illinois.edu.
If you are a student, faculty or staff member with the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, your campus-approved sub-brand guidance can be found on its marketing and communications page. Please use your college-provided resources. For questions, contact marcom@aces.illinois.edu.
If you are a student, faculty or staff member with the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, your campus-approved sub-brand guidance can be found on its brand page. Please use your college-provided resources. For questions, contact las-news@illinois.edu.