Frequently Asked Questions

Section 1:
The Purpose of the Brand

Throughout the last several years, our university has experienced significant growth and transformation in areas including:

  • Enrollment (achieving more than 11,000 students enrolled)
  • Academic programs (establishing the first PhD programs in three colleges)
  • Research activity
  • Online and regional presence
  • Industry and community partnerships

The current brand was created at a time when the university looked very different. The new brand reflects who we are today and where we are headed next. It is especially significant at this point in UNA’s history as we approach our Bicentennial in 2030.

No. Our mission and core values remain intact. The new brand clarifies and elevates how we communicate that mission to the area, region, state, nation, and, most broadly, the world.

Yes. Nothing about that aspect of UNA will change. We are – and will continue to be – the UNA
Lions.

Section 2:
The Brand Development Process

The brand was created through a research-driven, inclusive process that included:

  • Market research
  • Internal listening sessions
  • Faculty, staff, and student input
  • Leadership and board engagement
  • Competitive and peer analysis

In fact, dozens of faculty, staff, and students participated in a variety of listening sessions. Additionally, the Board of Trustees was engaged in the process. The process helped guide the resulting design that will help shepherd UNA into the next century of delivering high quality higher education.

The final brand was reviewed and approved by:

  • University leadership
  • The President
  • The Board of Trustees

No. This was a strategic institutional initiative. The brand represents the university’s academic direction, market position, and future identity—not simply a visual update.

No. The original content for all aspects of the “Grow Your World” campaign and brand were generated by consummate professionals with decades of experience in their respective fields.

Section 3:
Visual Identity and Practical Impact

The new brand includes:

  • A new logo
  • Updated colors and typography
  • Revised tone and voice
  • A refreshed digital experience

No. The ninth and final name change to University of North Alabama in 1974 by then-President Dr. Robert M. Guillot is applicable today – indicative of the regional nature of the institution and our history of serving this part of the state.

The full launch will align with the website redesign, which will take place over the next year.

The full brand rollout will be done over time; however, campus will begin to see external and internal changes beginning July 6, 2026.

No. There will be a guided transition period with brand templates and support throughout the process.

Yes. Standardized tools will be provided to ensure consistency and ease of adoption.

A strong brand directly impacts:

  • Student recruitment
  • Alumni engagement
  • Employer partnerships
  • Philanthropy
  • National reputation

Section 4:
Faculty, Staff, and Students

This brand supports:

  • Program recruitment
  • Faculty research visibility
  • Grant competitiveness
  • National positioning

Students benefit through:

  • Stronger degree recognition
  • Improved employer perception
  • Expanded national awareness

Yes. Students were part of a number of listening sessions, and they provided thoughtful comments that were part of the overall design process.

Section 5:
Alumni and External Stakeholders

Yes. The brand honors our long and storied history while positioning the institution for future generations

Through:

  • Direct outreach
  • Updated digital presence
  • Media announcements

Section 6:
What Stays the Same

  • Accreditation
  • Academic rigor
  • Degree value
  • Institutional mission
  • Student support commitment

You can download a copy of the Visual Identity Guideline for quick reference or to print!