Howard University Logo

Howard University Logo PNG

Howard University’s logo was chosen n accordance with the motto “Truth and Service.” Therefore, it is strict, business-like, and serious. The main emblem features the main building: with a clock and a rotunda on top. The historic structure is rendered in blue and white colors. The administrative seal contains a shield with an open book and also resonates with the slogan.

Meaning and History

From the very beginning, HU positioned itself as a non-sectarian university, open to representatives of all races, which is why many African-American students study there. However, according to the original plan, it was supposed to be a seminary for training clergy. Yet, just a few weeks before the launch, the project was expanded with the idea of creating a university and was revised. As a result, a university was formed, which included several humanities and medical colleges. The US Congress officially established it in the spring of 1867.

The entire identity of the university is associated with the name of Oliver Otis Howard – a general, hero of the Civil War, and head of the Freedmen’s Bureau. He founded Howard University, inspired it, and was its first president from 1869 to 1874. The main logo features the iconic HU building located on the university campus. This is the Founders Library, later added to the list of national historic landmarks. Therefore, it has become very important for the entire area, not just for the university representatives.

What is Howard University?

Howard University is a private higher education institution registered in Washington, District of Columbia. It was established by General Oliver Otis Howard, in whose honor it is named. The university was founded in 1867. It offers more than 120 educational programs. The university’s accreditation level is R2.

The academic logo of Howard University is an original combination of its roots and modernity. The old times are represented by the university’s architectural landmark – Founders Library. The building is included in the list of important historical monuments. The logo depicts the upper part with two domes of different sizes and a tall spire. Below (in a square segment), there are clocks. They, as well as the windows, are painted white. At the bottom, there is a horizontal rectangular platform with decorative elements at the edges. The text indicates the year of the university’s founding – 1867. The university’s name is typed in an uppercase font with serifs. The first word is larger than the second. A thin stripe runs between them.

The seal

The seal of Howard University is classically round. It features a rondel with an accentuated center: a rectangular shield in the colors of the American flag is depicted. At the top, on a dark blue field, there are small stars, and at the bottom, on white space, there are red stripes. In the very “heart” of the shield, there is a symbol of wisdom and knowledge – a book. It is open to the inscription “Deo et Reipublicae.” Surrounding it is the Latin phrase “Veritas et Utilitas,” divided into three fragments, with each word being flanked by single dots on both sides. Next is a chain of small dots. Then, in a wide ring, the name and location of the university are indicated. The composition is completed by a twisted rope running in a circle. The seal’s palette is maintained in the colors of the US national flag, consisting of red, blue, and white.

The visual identity of Howard University is business-like and practical, just like the activities it conducts. Everything in it is subordinate to the canons of truth, knowledge, and justice, which is emphasized by the two slogans on the seal. The university’s historical roots are also not forgotten. They are represented by the library, the building of which is included in the list of architecturally significant objects.

Font and Colors

The basic font in the emblems of Howard University is called Serif12 Beta. It is a typeface with small serifs. If a sans-serif is required, Eau Sans Book is used. The official university palette is represented by dark blue, red, and gray colors. In addition, white is used, which serves as the background.

Howard University color codes