Wake Forest University Logo

Wake Forest University Logo PNG

The Wake Forest University logo is stylish and noble. The emblem transports the viewer back to the times of knights and nobles, hinting at deep historical roots, many years of service to society, and the cultivation of its best representatives.

Meaning and History

The university’s logo is tied to its historical roots. Since the institution was founded by Baptists, the symbolism carries a lot of religious undertones.

Diving into the brand identity, WFU holds the embodiment of prestige, quality, and intellectual empowerment. It takes pride in being recognized as a place where academic rigour meets experiential learning, a combination that is instrumental in shaping the futures of its students. The brand represents a commitment to foster a community that upholds its rich traditions while embracing modern advancements in the realm of education.

The unique visual identity of WFU, comprising of a tastefully crafted logo and distinct color palette, is an integral part of its brand recognition. These elements are not just symbols, but they carry the weight of the institution’s heritage, the promise of a nurturing learning environment, and the aspiration to propel students toward their goals.

The brand communicates the essence of unity in diversity, a value deeply embedded in its culture. At WFU, every student is considered a valuable part of the community, where different perspectives are welcomed and embraced. This emphasis on inclusivity and diversity is one of the defining characteristics of its brand identity, highlighting the university’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive educational atmosphere.

What is Wake Forest University?

A private university in Winston-Salem with complex academic programs, resulting in 93% of graduates eventually earning doctoral degrees. Education is offered in 97 directions with a very individualized approach and even the possibility of developing a personal program.

before 2001

2001 – 2010

2010 – today

The emblem features a shield associated with the founding city. The shield, divided into black and gold halves, contains an unusual letter W composed of two intersecting V’s.

The entire figure demonstrates duality, the struggle between good and evil. It suggests the necessity of combined efforts from both teachers and the student for acquiring quality knowledge. It hints at victory over oneself, transitioning from ignorance to enlightenment through education. It indicates that each student possesses both good and challenging traits, and the victory of either side depends on their efforts.

To the side of the visual mark is the institution’s name in larger letters, and below, in the second row, the word University. This arrangement resembles the emblems of most universities in the country.

The name itself is associated with the city of Wake Forest, where the university was founded. The institution moved from there to Winston-Salem 100 years later.

The Seal

The seal is edged with a rope, demonstrating protection for what is most valuable and important. In the first circle, you will find the name of the university and the year of its establishment – 1834.

At the center of the seal is a shield dedicated to faith. On it, the overlapping letters X and P, deciphered as “Christos” are situated at the center, preceded and followed by the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet: alpha and omega. This is a reference to the phrase from the Bible: “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end” (Rev. 1:8). The composition points to the Omnipotence of God, His Eternal existence, and His guidance over everything that happens on Earth. He is also the source of knowledge.

Under the shield is a heraldic ribbon with the Latin inscription Pro Humanitate (For humanity). The motto refers to the grand act of Christ, who gave His life for the salvation of humanity. It also represents the primary goal of the institution – to work for the benefit of people, make discoveries, and acquire knowledge to bring benefits.

Above the letters P and X, sun rays rise, pointing to the phrase: “I am the light of the world.” They also show that the knowledge gained at the university enlightens and frees from ignorance.

The seal is in line with the university’s color scheme: a black background with golden letters. It appears solemn but a bit gloomy. Monochrome versions executed in gold create a more pleasant impression.

Font and Colors

The primary colors of the university are black and gold.

• Black – indicates antiquity (the university is almost 200 years old). The shade implies labor, hinting at the earth where the first students worked.
• Gold – personifies knowledge, high society, golden qualities of character, and faith. All these things are what university graduates acquire. In Christianity, gold is faith and the best trait that is born in a person through undergoing trials. Similarly, education cultivates diligence, patience, wisdom, and other virtues in a person.

The font of the inscription is ITC Giovanni Book, very elegant with serifs and the thinning letter ends. It points to intelligent, educated, and smart people.

Wake Forest University color codes