The Omnibus

Issue date: 2/3/10 Section: News

The Southwest Baptist University Department of Athletics announced they are looking at changing the SBU Bearcat logo. In a campus e-mail, L. Renae Myles, interim athletic director, stated "The SBU Department of Athletics believes now is the time to launch a more bold, modern look…"
T.J. John, assistant professor of athletic training, and chair of the University Branding Committee elaborated on the purpose and direction of the committee.

Q&A
Q: Define "branding" regarding the logo and SBU.
A: Branding as applied to the SBU logo is trade marking and licensing images, phrases etc., specifically our intellectual property. This will create a unified and distinct identity for the University, as well as protect our intellectual property.
Q: When was the committee formed to discuss changing the logo?
A: The University Branding Committee was formed early in the Fall 2009 semester.
Q: What kind of feedback have you seen from students and staff?
A: The overall feedback was positive for updating the logo. There were diverse opinions expressed on the specifics of each design. The committee is currently working through the feedback from the web site.
Q: What does the committee want to accomplish in changing the logo?
A: The Committee desires to create a unified and distinct identity for the University. There is also the need to trademark and license images representing the University. By doing this, we will protect the intellectual property of the University.
Q: When do you expect to make a decision?
A: The Committee hopes to make a recommendation to the Cabinet and the Board of Trustees sometime this semester. The final decisions will be made by the Cabinet and Board of Trustees.

The committee includes both the former and current athletic directors and Provost Dr. Brown.
"It's not just an athletic endeavor," John said, "It's a community."

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