Logos
The Catholic University of America logo is the primary institution-wide identifier for use on University communications, and must appear consistently to maintain the integrity of the Catholic University brand. It must always be reproduced from the official Catholic University logo artwork files — not altered, re-created, or rearranged in any way.
Primary University Logos
The primary logo is meant to convey the essence of the brand at the highest level, providing a strong impression and unity, as well as recognition when used consistently and properly.
The logo is composed of two elements: the Catholic University wordmark and the Catholic University shield.
Secondary University Logos
An additional version of the University logo was created to support the brand by providing an option to utilize when the primary logo will not reproduce well due to size or printing restrictions. It is also to be used almost exclusively for internal communications, not external audiences who are not yet familiar with Catholic University.
Logo Clear Space
The diagrams shown here provide guidelines for establishing the minimum amount of clear space for print and digital reproductions. Graphics, typography, illustrations, and/or photographs should not be positioned within the perimeter of the clear space. The same minimum distances should be used between the logo and the edges of the page.
Logo Color Variations
The full-color Catholic University of America logo is three colors: black, red, and blue. Please refer to this site's Color section for custom formulations that have been developed to accommodate various media.
The preferred logo is the 3-color version on a white background. Additional color options such as 2-color, black-only, 3-color reversed, 2-color reversed, and white-only are shown below.
Shield
The Catholic University of America shield, or coat of arms, was designed by Pierre de Chaignon la Rose in 1935 and emphasizes three things: our country, our faith, and our University.
The cross is comprised of red and white stripes on a field quarter of blue and white, created from our three national colors and no others. The most salient charge of the shield is a cross, clearly indicative of the Catholic faith. The stripes of red are emblematic of the Precious Blood of Christ, while the white stripes symbolize the innocence of Christ.
The quartered field of blue and white uses the heraldic colors of Our Lady, the Mother of God. In the upper left, the crescent is the heraldic symbol of the Immaculate Conception, constituted by ecclesiastical authority as the Patroness of the United States of America.
The open book represents Catholic University as an institution of learning. The motto on the pages of the book, “Deus Lux Mea Est” (God is my light), points to the source of all truth and enlightenment.
Shield Clear Space
The diagram provides guidelines for establishing the minimum amount of clear space for print and digital reproductions. Graphics, typography, illustrations, and/or photographs should not be positioned within the perimeter of the clear space. The same minimum distances should be used between the shield and the edges of the page.
Seal
The Catholic University Presidential Seal is limited to official documents. The President and Board of Trustees of The Catholic University of America use the seal to authenticate certain official documents they issue, such as diplomas.
The seal is a legal symbol of authenticity. The seal has no other legitimate purpose and therefore may be put to no other use. As such, graphic images that mimic it (i.e., the name of the University or one of its constituent parts encircling the shield) are not permitted.
External and Internal Co-branding
Co-branding is an important aspect of the University's outreach and partnerships with other institutions and organizations. When Catholic University is in the lead position, the structure is built around the University logo with separation by a thin line, while remaining associated by close proximity. The use of the primary or secondary University logo depends on the audience—External or Internal.
