Â鶹AV

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding trademarks.

  • What is a trademark?

    A trademark is a word, name, phrase, symbol or any combination thereof that identifies and distinguishes goods or services of one party from those of others. A trademark is a brand name. Rights in trademarks arise as a result of the use of the marks in commerce to identify the source or origin of goods and services. In addition, a trademark remains the property of the owner so long as the owner continues to use it properly and protects its authenticity as a trademark.

  • What qualifies as a trademark, logo or symbol?

    Any mark, name, logo, symbol, nickname, abbreviation, word, mascot, slogan, uniform insignia or landmark that is associated with Â鶹AV and is distinguishable from any other university, team or organization.

  • How long does it take to obtain approval from Â鶹AV?

    A decision on any license request will depend on the nature and extent of the use being applied for, the number of trademarks involved, the number and diversity of products for which the trademark or trademarks will be used, and other possible factors, such as whether the University believes there is a need to seek legal advice on the application. However, in most cases, an answer will be provided in 30 days or less.

  • What products can be licensed?

    Â鶹AV will not license activity which it believes would disparage the University or any of its trademarks, or would be libelous, slanderous, scandalous, offensive, vulgar or constitute an unfair trade practice, or otherwise reflect negatively on the University. Some activity may constitute fair use or free speech so as not to require license. Advice in that regard should be sought from your own legal counsel.

  • Does all artwork have to be submitted for approval?

    Yes.  All art designs must be submitted and approved by Â鶹AV's Office of Trademark & Licensing prior to products being produced. Student organizations and university departments must submit an Internal Licensing Approval Form to the attention of Daniel McLemore by email.

  • How do we use Â鶹AV's Trademarks with other Trademarks (cobranding)?

    Any use of Â鶹AV marks with other trademarks must be approved by the Â鶹AV Office of Marketing Communications, or through a University contract.

  • If I am a student or from a department of Â鶹AV, do I need to ask permission to use a trademark?

    Yes. Student Organizations and University Departments must complete and submit the Internal Licensing Approval Form. It is important for Â鶹AV to protect the trademarks and controlling their use will maintain their value.

  • If the product is not going to be resold, does it have to be produced by a licensed vendor?

    Yes. All items bearing Â鶹AV marks must be produced by a licensed vendor whether they are for resale or not.

  • Are any requests exempt from royalties?

    Generally, items are subject to royalties. However, each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

  • When am I able to use the trademarks of Â鶹AV?

    Any trademark which identifies or is associated with Â鶹AV may not be used without prior, expressed, written permission from the Office of Marketing Communications. A questionnaire is available to assist you with providing pertinent information so that your request can be considered.  

  • How long do requests usually take to process?

    Typically, the review process is 2-5 university-business days. Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure compliance with Â鶹AV policies.

  • Is it acceptable to alter a Â鶹AV Trademark?

    No. At no time can Â鶹AV Trademarks be altered. Altering a mark would hurt its integrity. This would dilute the strength and value of Â鶹AV's marks.