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Brand Essentials
Our visual identity is like our brand’s signature — instantly recognizable, unmistakably Sac State. And while our brand is bigger than just logos, colors, and typefaces, those elements play a critical role in making sure we look like who we are. From flyers to emails, every detail contributes to the impression we leave behind.
Official Names
The University has three official names that may be used in communications. The only officially recognized names are:
- Sacramento State
- Sac State
- California State University, Sacramento
Name variations that should never be used include:
CSUS
CSU Sacramento
Cal State University
Sacramento State University
California State University -- Sacramento
Primary Logos
The official names—Sacramento State, Sac State and California State University, Sacramento—are visually represented through the primary University logos.
Logos can be downloaded in various configurations, colors and file types for use in official Sacramento State materials and communications. Prior to using any logo, please see the User Agreement for University Logos and reference the Identity Style Guide.
The Official Seal has limited use and can be requested via universitymarketing@csus.edu.
User Agreement for University Logos
Before downloading or using University logos, please review and agree to the terms outlined in the University Logo User Agreement.
Logo Lockups
Identity Extensions
Identity Extensions are units that serve or support the University’s primary function – administration, colleges, departments, programs, centers and initiatives, among others. They can be represented by a primary University logo or a logo lockup. They cannot be solely represented by a separate logo or mark.
Note: Prior to July 2024, Identity Extensions were visually represented by integrated logos – a logo with a specific unit’s name attached below it. Any units that have existing integrated logos may continue to use them. However, logo lockups are the preferred presentation for Identity Extensions moving forward.
Logo Lockups
Logo lockup configurations pair a primary logo with the name of their unit in an approved University font. To ensure flexibility, they can be applied on collateral, in digital communications, on swag and in most other instances. Logo lockups can be used by Identity Extensions, or paired with campaigns, slogans, etc.
Modifiable Logo Lockup PDFs
For ease of use, logo lock up files are available as Adobe Illustrator pdfs. They can be opened in Adobe Acrobat and modified as a PDF, or opened in Adobe Illustrator and saved as text as outline for vector files. Use logo lockups with a (TM) for printing or embroidering on swag, apparel and uniforms. Be sure to follow primary logo minimum sizes and clear space requirements when using logo lockups.
Colors
Sacramento State’s primary brand colors are Sac State Green and Sac State Gold. These colors anchor our identity across all communications. A secondary color palette is available to enhance designs. All designs should include at least 30% primary colors, and can include up to 70% secondary colors.
Before designing materials, please reference the Identity Style Guide for more details.
Primary Colors
Primary colors should be used for 30% of your design at full (100%) strength before any secondary colors are applied.
Secondary Colors
Secondary colors can be used at 100% strength and/or as a tint. Tints of the primary colors – Sac State Green and Sac State Gold – can also be used as secondary colors.
Ensure legibility with a strong contrast between text and the background color. Use dark text on light backgrounds, and light text on dark backgrounds. You can test your accessibility with the Adobe contrast checker tool.
Fonts
Sacramento State’s primary fonts are Trajan Pro, Myriad Pro, and Aleo. For accent, the approved University script fonts are Great Vibes and Scriptina Pro. The full font families can be downloaded through Adobe Creative Cloud, which is accessible to all faculty and staff with a Sac Link account.
*Scriptina Pro is not available in Adobe Fonts, this font can be downloaded for free here.
Alternate Fonts
The primary University fonts should be used in official communications and materials whenever possible. However, sometimes these fonts aren’t available or installed where needed. When a primary University font is not available, Georgia or Arial can be used as an alternative.
Graphic Elements
Graphic elements are available to enhance Sacramento State designs. Patterns and shapes can add visual texture and be used creatively in elements like callout boxes and backgrounds. Below is a preview of available graphic elements. More graphics and variations can be downloaded.
Before designing materials, please reference the Identity Style Guide for detailed usage instructions.
Photo/Video
Visual storytelling is one of the most impactful ways to express the Sacramento State brand. Through compelling photography and video, we capture the people, places and moments that define our identity.
Social Media Logos
Ready-to-use icons are available to download for use in your marketing assets—web pages, print materials, email signatures, business cards, and more. Offered in various formats, each set ensures consistent sizing, color, and style so your brand stays polished and follows platform guidelines.
Need Help?
The Brand Center is your go-to online resource — but if you have questions, we're always here to help. Just email us at universitymarketing@csus.edu