Brand Identity and Guidelines

The Cal State Monterey Bay brand is a distinct expression of who we are and what we do. Our brand guidelines help us to share that identity consistently and take every opportunity to demonstrate “The Strength of Us.”

Otter Mascot

Brand Promise and Pillars

Our brand promise and pillars represent the essence of who we are. Bookmark this page so you can refer back to them when writing copy about CSUMB, and aim to incorporate this messaging whenever you can.

Brand Promise

CSUMB is an inspiring coastal environment and supportive community offering a personalized education and mentorship that empowers students to become compassionate leaders ready to shape the future.

Brand Pillars

  • Pillar 1 - Immerse yourself in an inspiring coastal environment.
  • Pillar 2 - Find your people in a supportive and inclusive community.
  • Pillar 3 - Experience a personalized education guided by mentorship.
  • Pillar 4  - Become a compassionate leader ready to shape the future.
  • Pillar 5  - Gain an education that provides a lifetime of value.

Brand Personality

Our brand also has a personality — a set of human characteristics that helps us to connect with our key audiences on an emotional level. Every interaction is an opportunity to evoke these qualities and allow our university’s unique spirit to shine through. 

Supportive - Inclusive - Transformative - Inspiring - Approachable  - Down-to-Earth - Connected - Excellence

Resources

Color Palette

Get the details on our brand colors and submit your design for review.

Mascot on the beach

Licensing

The Cal State Monterey Bay licensing program protects, promotes, and controls the proper usage of the CSUMB brand. All vendors that wish to utilize our trademarks on branded goods are required to hold a license with the institution.

Cal State Monterey Bay brand

Logo

CSUMB’s logos – from simple wordmarks to Otter Spirit marks to athletics logos and the university seal – are an important part of our identity. Learn the dos and don’ts for using them.

Mascot

Get to know our mascot, a sea otter named Monte Rey.

Students standing with the Mascot in front of the building

Photography

Learn to show off our beautiful campus using CSUMB’s signature photographic style.

Writing

View our guidelines for official internal and external university communications, including brand personality, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and formatting.

Questions? We’re Here to Help!

Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you have about University Communications.

Associate Vice President, Marketing and Communications

News and Information Manager, Public Information Officer

Deputy Public Information Officer