As
part of its efforts to announce the beginning of the next 75 years in the
history of the institution, Cardinal Stritch University is proud to unveil a
new website and visual identity, which includes a new logo.
The
most significant element in the new visual identity is the new logo. The logo
treatment includes a rose window as the main visual element, as well as a refreshed
typeface that reflects the tradition, excellence and innovation of the
University.
The
rose window icon is based upon a rose window found at the Basilica of Saint
Clare in Assisi, honoring the rich past of Stritch and the legacy of the Sisters
of St. Francis of Assisi.
“The rose window logo is an announcement to
the community that Cardinal Stritch University is moving forward boldly to meet
the challenges of the 21st century learner,” said Dr. James Loftus, Stritch
president. “Our 75th anniversary year has been a wonderful occasion to
celebrate our past, and is an appropriate point at which to introduce this new
logo as part of the University’s next chapter. But as we do, the tireless work
of the Sisters is honored in everything that the rose window represents.”
The
Baltimore-based Neustadt Creative Marketing created the new logo after
extensive research. Over time, the existing “lamp” logo will be phased out and
the rose window logo phased in. Although the “lamp” icon is being retired as the
University’s logo, it will remain a visual element in the official University
seal.
A second major change in the University’s visual identity is the move from maroon and gray to red and gray as the University’s official colors.
Red was the official color of the University and was switched to maroon in
1998, when Stritch moved to University status and adopted the current logo and
visual identity system. The return to red as one of the University’s official
colors will provide additional vibrancy and visibility for Stritch. Maroon will
remain as a palette color for the University, as it works well with the new red
and also provides another connection to Stritch’s recent history.
The official introduction was slated for Oct. 8, 2012 to take
place during Franciscan Mission Week. Highlighted by Transitus, the evening
prayer service commemorating the death of Francis, this week includes a number
of activities, including the annual Blessing of the Animals and a Mass in honor
of St. Francis' Feast day.
This new logo and visual identity is the essential visual
element of the redesigned www.stritch.edu, which went live today.
Fastspot, an interactive agency also based in Baltimore,
worked with Stritch to develop a completely new design for www.stritch.edu, including graphic design, photography, and information architecture. Questions or comments regarding the new website can be directed to communications@stritch.edu.
Stritch
has celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2012 with festive events that
commemorate the University's rich history of transforming lives. Founded in
1937 by the Sisters of Saint Francis of Assisi as Saint Clare College with an
inaugural class of four students, Stritch now welcomes more than 6,000 men and
women from all faiths and ages to its campus and sites in three states.