The Power of Brand Consistency at UMB

Every communication tells the UMB story. A strong brand is more than a logo or visual identity. It brings together the images, messaging, and shared perspective of the university community. By presenting a consistent brand, we build trust, strengthen our reputation, and maximize the impact of our message. This branding hub provides the tools and guidelines you need to create on-brand communications.

The Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) works with your area, school, or unit to support your communications goals. Our brand manager is here to answer questions, review materials, and ensure your communications reflect UMB's identity and deliver a strong, relatable message.

Brand Approvals | Why Brand Consistency Matters | What Our Brand Represents

Branding Resources

Brand Approvals

Some uses of the UMB brand require approval before they are published or produced.

  • Logo use.
    • OCPA must approve all uses of UMB and school logos before a project is printed, published, or produced.
    • Logos should be used as provided, not altered or rearranged.
  • Endorsements and testimonials. Do not use the UMB name or brand in testimonials or endorsements without prior approval from the UMB president or designee. Approval is generally not granted for commercial goods or services, except in exceptional circumstances.
  • Logo formatting. An ampersand (&) may not be used in any UMB logo or logo text lockup.
  • Do not create your own logo. Departments, centers, and institutes may not create their own logos. Only OCPA or approved communications departments can create official UMB logos.

Send PDF proofs for approval to branding@umaryland.edu. 

Questions? Let's Figure It Out Together

Branding can feel like a lot of rules, but our goal is to make your work look great and represent UMB well, not to slow you down. If you're not sure where to start, what template to use, or whether something needs approval, reach out. We always prefer to help early in your process rather than after decisions have been made.

Contact OCPA Brand Management: branding@umaryland.edu

Why Brand Consistency Matters

UMB Logo

Staying True to UMB

Consistent and correct branding is essential when representing a national brand — particularly one that is also a state institution. Our brand reflects the values, credibility, and reputation of the entirety of UMB, not just an individual department or project. Every communications piece, whether internal or external, contributes to the public perception of our organization. When branding is applied inconsistently or incorrectly, it can dilute the University’s message, create confusion, and undermine the professionalism we work hard to uphold.

Creating One Unified Voice

Adhering to brand guidelines ensures that all materials — from flyers and brochures to presentations and digital content — speak with one unified voice. This is especially important for UMB, where transparency, accountability, and public trust are critical. Proper branding reinforces the University’s commitment to excellence, helps build stronger recognition across diverse audiences, and supports the long-term strength of UMB’s identity.

What Our Brand Represents

Our brand is more than logos, colors, and design. It reflects who we are, what we value, and how we present UMB to the world.