On “College Decision Day,” or “Deposit Day,” high school students make their college choice and pay a deposit. In return, USF mails them a set of five enamel pins that are specially designed for their incoming class. The pins are designed by USF’s in-house design team. This year, the Class of 2026 received pins that evoke the spirit of our campus, our city, and our students. They include: the Golden Gate bridge adorned with California poppies, a waving felt pennant representing USF’s athletic program, local legend Karl, the San Francisco Fog catching some air on a skateboard, a colorful wolf (a nod to the Jesuit wolves and kettle story), and the iconic bus stop at USF’s hilltop campus (designed by student intern Kimberly Banyadith ‘23). Since the pins are designed uniquely for this incoming class, they serve as a way for students to recognize others in their class.
From the Judges
Judges found these to be well-executed, fun, and highly collectible pins for first-year students that build excitement as they are welcomed into the campus community. Involving current students in the unique, whimsical designs was a terrific approach to celebrating students and creating a social media buzz. The strategy of delivering the pins at different stages, with the last one being received when the student arrived on campus, was also a smart idea. The badge of honor ties it in, and the color scheme is cohesive throughout. Judges really liked that the design of the pins was incorporated into the design of the printed brochure. It all came together well, and the price point of $1.38 per item is a good use of resources and makes this type of product accessible to many types of institutions.
