University at Albany's "Unleash Greatness" Brand Identity System
From the Nominator
For the first time since 2007, the University at Albany embarked on a institutional branding initiative. Our relatively new president insisted that the branding initiative was a top university priority and the time had come to get it (along with a new strategic plan) done. Fortunately, a market research study that reached more than 5,000 people (including current and prospective students, alumni, faculty/staff, non-enrolled admits) had been conducted to glean insights into current perceptions of our institution and brand.
From the Judges
This entry was impressive. The identity system created by Albany evidences a strong design with its clean, clear graphics. That design is reinforced by careful thinking about how that design communicated key institutional messages to the audience. The chevron is dynamic, conveying an active and engaged campus. The design guidelines themselves are clear, easy to use, and display a sense of humor. This was a job very well done.