These graphic assets were inspired by Penn State’s personality, identity, and heritage. The strength of these elements lies in their specific ties to the University—from campus architectural details to colors like Old Coaly and Original 1887. The consistent and intentional use of these elements will ensure your visual communications are rooted in the strength of our brand. These elements are designed to be flexible; be sure to look for tips on how they can be layered for even further customization.
All of these assets have been added to the shared Canva account under the Graphic Assets folder. You can insert them into any of your designs. For best practices on how to use the graphic assets and to download the graphic assets for use in other file formats, please visit the Brand Manual.
Shield Elements
Inspired by the iconic Penn State shield featuring the Nittany Lion, these elements can add visual interest to marketing materials while seamlessly aligning with our core brand and identity. While this graphic category carries the strongest visual connection to our academic mark, it should not replace or compete with Penn State’s official academic mark or shield.
Community Shield
The Community Shield represents the diverse community of Penn Staters working together to positively impact the world. The points and lines of varying shapes and sizes connect and overlap to create an energy and motion for the design, just as individual Penn Staters contribute new and differing perspectives to the spirit of the University.
Geometrics
Geometric elements feature bold and graphical designs, influenced by Penn State architectural and structural details. Based on your design choices (including transparency, blend modes, and positioning), you can use these elements for a variety of moods and audiences.
HUB
Inspired by architectural details like the ceiling of the HUB-Robeson Center at University Park, the HUB element adds sophistication and character to designs and photos. The HUB geometric embraces the structural strength of a simple triangle pattern and honors the University’s foundations.
Limestone
As an abundant mineral resource in Pennsylvania, limestone is an important historical element found throughout Penn State—from the construction of campus buildings to signs across the Commonwealth. The Limestone geometric reflects Penn State’s strong foundation in communities across Pennsylvania.
Graphic Patterns
Graphic patterns act as a secondary layering technique to add texture and depth, and they should always be used subtly even on bold designs.
Points/Expanded Points
Points now include two styles: original Points and Expanded Points. These elements are flexible, simple patterns derived from the dotted lines of the Community Shield. Points can add depth and interest when layered with our other brand elements. Because of the suggested subtle application of this element, the Points pattern works well for casual designs. Based on your design choices, Points can be used for a variety of audiences.
H33
H33 is a herringbone pattern inspired by the 33-degree angle in the lower portion of the Penn State shield. The H33 pattern evokes a collegiate tone, and the fiber-like quality symbolizes our community of Penn Staters woven together. H33 works well in formal designs, and the pattern is flexible enough to be used as a background texture or as an accent on marketing materials.
Lines
Based on the connecting lines found in the Community Shield, the Lines pattern can add energy and visual interest to a design. Like Points, Lines play well with our other brand elements and can be layered to add depth. The straight lines of this pattern work well for formal designs. Based on your design choices, Lines are flexible enough to be used for various audiences.
Positive Grid
As the name indicates, the Positive Grid is a graphic pattern that reflects the optimism and active nature of our voice and tone. This element’s grid provides alignment opportunities for text and images and may complement designs with a technical or scientific aesthetic. Based on your design choices, the Positive Grid is flexible enough to be used for various audiences.
Gradients
Gradients are supplemental design elements that can make photos and patterned backgrounds more dynamic and compelling. Adding a gradient can soften a photo and create a canvas for design content and typography.
Color Filters
Because of their vibrant and transformative nature, Color Filters add an optimistic and organic quality to your photos. Color Filters are available in multiple colors from our three brand palettes. Be sure to align the colors you choose with the content and audience of your creative. Learn more about matching colors to your messaging in the colors section of the Brand Manual.