Hampton University Brand Guidelines
THE BRAND LOGO
Elevating the brand establishes Hampton University’s unique identity, attracting loyal stakeholders and fostering a strong, positive reputation.
About Hampton University
Hampton University has earned a national and international reputation for academic excellence and transformative leadership. Every aspect of our brand reflects our rich legacy and innovative spirit, grounded in our call to action: The Standard of Excellence, Education for Life.
Founded in 1868, Hampton is a premier HBCU dedicated to intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and lifelong achievement. Located in Hampton, Virginia, our diverse campus community offers programs in the liberal arts, sciences, business, research, and professional studies.
Known for groundbreaking research and community impact, Hampton continues to set the standard for excellence in higher education. This brand guide is maintained by the Office of University Relations to ensure all communications reflect our proud heritage and bold future.
Learn more at hamptonu.edu.
Mission Statement
Hampton University’s mission is to educate, build character, and prepare students for global leadership and service. As a historically Black, research-driven university, Hampton is committed to education for life, innovation, and cultural excellence.
Vision Statement
LOGO
Hampton University’s logo is more than just a symbol—it represents the institution’s rich history, academic excellence, and unwavering commitment to its students and community. It embodies the strength, integrity, and unity that define Hampton University, serving as a visual representation of its legacy and future. The logo is a source of pride, instantly recognizable and deeply connected to the university’s mission.
Because of its significance, the proper use of the logo is essential. As the most powerful visual element of Hampton University’s brand, it must be protected and used consistently to maintain its impact. Any alterations or unauthorized adaptations compromise its integrity and dilute the university’s identity. To preserve its meaning and ensure a strong, unified brand presence, the logo must always be used according to official guidelines.
What our icon stands for.
The icon in our logo features the Clock Tower, a National Historic Landmark located on the Hampton University campus. Standing 150 feet tall in the heart of the university, the Clock Tower was built in 1886 and showcases a four-faced illuminated clock with chimes. The bell still rings at the top of every hour, symbolizing our Alma Mater’s enduring message: “Let our lives do the singing.”
Also featured in the logo is the outline of the historic Emancipation Oak—an enduring symbol of freedom, knowledge, and progress. It was beneath this tree that the first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation took place. Its presence in our visual identity connects Hampton’s rich legacy to our continued pursuit of innovation and excellence.
Together, the Clock Tower and Emancipation Oak serve as powerful reminders of who we are, where we’ve been, and where we’re going. Our primary brand color is Hampton Blue, complemented by white—reflecting the pride, resilience, and heritage of Hampton University.
Primary Logo
The brand logo identifies Hampton University. Use this logo to represent our location, signage, products, and merchandise.
This logo is a carefully crafted piece of locked artwork and should not be altered in any way.
Primary Logo Usage
Primary usage on white background
Blue and White are the primary colors and should be used most often.
White on black or anthracite
Primary usage on white background
Blue and White are the primary colors and should be used most often.
White on black or anthracite
Blue on silver
Athletics Logo
HU Block Logo
Intercollegiate Logo
Primary Colors
Hampton Blue
C95 M72 Y0 K0
PMS: 293 C
Hampton Ice
C3 M1 Y0 K0
Secondary Colors
Hampton Classic Blue
C100 M90 Y35 K32
PMS: 103-16
Hampton Grey
C25 M19 Y18 K0
PMS: P 179-9U
Body Text Color
Anchor Grey
C73 M62 Y60 K52
PMS: 179-15 C
School and department marketing lockups
Marketing lockups give our schools, departments, and various campus units a way to showcase their unique identity while still staying connected to the wider Hampton University family.
As a reminder, the circular Hampton University seals should be kept for internal or official documents only – they aren’t designed public consumption.
The Official Seal
- Academic Degrees
- Legal Documents
- Proposals to the Commonwealth
- Ceremonial Occasions programs
- Official Resolutions
- Documents from the Office of the President
Scaling
Recommended minimum size is 30 pixels for screen, and .25 inches in print.
Clear Space
Clear space can be measured using the width of the tower logo. See example.
Typeface
If Bio Sans is not available, Montserrat may be used as a secondary font.
Adobe TypeFace
Logo Misuses to Avoid
Incorrect Sizing
Opacity
Editing the Logo
Altering of Color
Drop Shadows
Beveled Edges
