- What are Tulane University’s trademarks, and why are they protected?
Tulane’s trademarks and service marks are symbols of its identity. These include names, logos, images, and other visual representations. These marks are protected under U.S. trademark law to prevent misuse and ensure consistent representation of the university’s image.
Examples of protected marks:
- Names: Tulane, Tulane University, Green Wave, Tulane Green Wave
- Logos: Angry Wave, Riptide the Pelican, overlapping TU shield logos
- Other symbols: The official university seal, initials TU
All Tulane trademarks are the property of the university and may only be used with permission from the University.
- Who needs approval to use Tulane service marks, trademarks or logos?
All uses of Tulane’s trademarks require prior approval if they appear on merchandise, promotional materials, or items produced for sale or distribution—whether by internal departments, student organizations, or external vendors.
To protect and manage its brand, Tulane works with its official licensing partner, the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC). Use CLC’s License Search Tool (https://clc.com/license-search/) to find a licensed vendor.
- Do all items require approval?
Not all items need approval. Use the table below to determine if your project requires it:
| Item | Approval Needed? | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Promotional Items and Apparel | Yes | T-shirts, bags, mugs, banners, stickers |
| Merchandise for resale or giveaways | Yes | Hats, water bottles, notebooks |
| Branded Event Materials | Yes | Tablecloths, pull up banners and other signage |
| Stationery and business cards produced by University Communications & Marketing | Yes | Letterhead, envelopes, business cards |
| Internal use documents or presentations | No | Memos, internal reports |
If there is any uncertainty, please contact:
- What restrictions apply to the use of Tulane’s service marks and trademarks?
Tulane’s service marks and trademarks may not be used in ways that conflict with the university’s mission, values, legal obligations, or brand standards. The university retains sole discretion to deny any use of its marks.
Prohibited categories of use include:
- Products that present safety, legal, or reputational risks:
- Weapons, explosives, or hazardous materials
- Items promoting illegal activity (e.g., illegal drug use)
- Content that violates local, state, or federal law
Items inconsistent with Tulane’s institutional values:
- Profanity, vulgarity, or obscene content
- Hate speech or discriminatory language
- Sexually explicit or suggestive content
Commercial associations that may imply university endorsement:
- Alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis-related products
- Co-branding
- Use by third parties for commercial gain without a license
Use in political campaigns or endorsements:
- Tulane’s trademarks may not be used to support or oppose any political candidate, party, or ballot initiative
- This applies to campaign apparel, signs, digital content, and advertisements
Additional limitations:
- Tulane marks must not be altered, distorted, or combined with other logos without prior approval
- Use of third party trademarks in conjunction with Tulane’s marks requires written permission from both rights holders
- If your proposed use falls into a gray area or is not listed here, contact UCM before proceeding: marketing@tulane.edu
- Can student organizations or departments design their own logos?[NC2]
Only with approval. Any design that incorporates Tulane’s name, initials, logos, or even resembles them must follow the university’s brand guidelines and be submitted for review.
Examples of what requires approval:
- Custom student organizational logos that include “Tulane” or the TU shield
- Event branding with Tulane mascots or athletics marks
- Modified university symbols, even if creatively altered
- Are certain Tulane logos restricted to specific uses?
Yes. Some logos and symbols are reserved for official university offices or Athletics. The following marks are reserved for Tulane Athletics and may not be used by academic departments, student organizations, or external vendors without prior permission:
Athletics Marks
- Angry Wave
- T Wave
- Retro logos in the [College Vault][NC3]
- Other official Athletics marks
For more information about Athletics marks, contact:
The Tulane University seal is reserved for formal, ceremonial, and legal documents. It may not be used on marketing materials, merchandise, or informal university communications without approval from the University.
Approved uses include:
- Diplomas and official academic transcripts
- Board of Tulane communications
- The university flag
- Commencement stage displays
Prohibited uses include:
- Certificates of participation or awards (unless specifically approved)
- Event signage, PowerPoint slides, websites, or email signatures
- Apparel, giveaways, or promotional items
If you are requesting seal use for a formal academic or ceremonial purpose, contact:
- How do I receive approval to use Tulane’s trademarks?
Follow these steps:
- Review the above guidelines
- Choose a licensed vendor through the CLC License Search Tool at https://clc.com/license-search/
- Work with the vendor to submit your design through MyiCLC, CLC’s digital review system
- Wait for approval from both CLC and Tulane
Each request is reviewed on a case by case basis. A new submission is required for every unique item or design.
- What if my request is denied?
If your use of a Tulane trademark is denied, you may request a review. However, Tulane reserves the right to reject any request at its sole discretion, including those not specifically listed as restricted. Approval is not guaranteed.
- How can external vendors get licensed to use Tulane’s trademarks?
To sell or distribute merchandise featuring Tulane’s trademarks, a vendor must obtain a license through CLC. There are three license types:
| Type | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Campus Supplier | Vendors producing only for university use | No royalties; simpler compliance |
| Local License | Local area vendors producing for limited resale | Annual fee + quarterly royalty reports |
| Standard License | Vendors selling regionally or nationally | $1,000 fee + ongoing royalties |
All licensed vendors must submit product designs via MyiCLC for review and approval.
For licensing applications, visit CLC’s website.
- What happens if someone uses Tulane’s trademarks without permission?
Unauthorized use of Tulane’s marks violates both university policy and federal trademark law (e.g., under the Lanham Act). Consequences may include:
- Removal or recall of unauthorized materials
- Loss of vendor privileges
- Legal action, including cease and desist and enforcement
Tulane actively protects its brand to prevent misuse and maintain its distinct institutional identity.
- I’ve created a new logo, name, or slogan for use by or on behalf of the university. What should I do first?
Contact UCM before using it publicly. UCM will review your request for brand alignment, and if appropriate, coordinate and consult with other university offices for approval and clearance.
- Can I register a trademark of the University myself?
No. All trademark filings must go through UCM ensure compliance and brand consistency.
- Who can I contact for help or more information?
For internal guidance or approvals, reach out to:
Carmen Sarduy (csarduy@tulane.edu)
For questions about licensing applications of becoming a licensed vendor, contact:
The Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC)
1075 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 3300
Atlanta, GA 30309
Tel: (770) 956-0520
www.clc.com
Notice
Tulane University’s Licensing & Trademark requirements are subject to change. While we strive to keep this page current, it may not always reflect the most recent policies or approval procedures. Before producing or distributing items featuring Tulane’s trademarks, please verify requirements directly by contacting trademrk@tulane.edu.
