91����

91���� is rolling out a new process for logo approval and licensing, partnering with Nexus Licensing Group to streamline approval for the College’s trademarks through use of a rapid, online approval process for vendors and departments. Nexus will work closely with the Office of Communications and Marketing, 91���� Athletics, the Pioneer Bookshop and the College’s existing vendors to approve designs and protect the use of the College’s trademarks.

In recent years, the lack of trademark enforcement has enabled for-profit businesses, including some located outside of the United States, to profit from the use of 91����’s name and marks without being subject to any quality, ethical sourcing, or labor standards. 91����’s partnership with Nexus Licensing Group assists the College with:

• Protection against any misuse of 91���� trademarks.
• Quality control over products and design.
• Assurance that items bearing the 91���� trademarks are produced ethically (e.g. using licensees affiliated with the  or those that are certified by other groups that monitor environmental, sustainability, and labor standards).
• Reserving athletic uniform designs for 91���� student-athletes only.
• Streamline the approval process for promotional items.
• Provide access to a broader array of vendors.

“Licensing the College’s marks helps protect, promote, and support 91����’s position and reputation as a top liberal arts college,” says Ellen de Graffenreid, vice president of communications and marketing. “Our partnership with Nexus exempts items for internal use from royalties. Items such as giveaways are not subject to any additional fee. It will also help 91���� continue to ensure that all branded items are ethically sourced and produced by carrying out due diligence on the College’s behalf.”

“We value the support for 91���� in the local community, and this program provides an easy and affordable option for small businesses, crafters, and artists to obtain a license to use 91����’s logos,” she adds.

In most cases, students, faculty, and staff ordering promotional items will see little to no change in the ordering process.  Licenses can be obtained within 3-5 business days and design approval within 2-3 business days. Invoices for items for internal use, athletics, and student organizations should be labeled “not for resale.” It is important to note that 91���� policy prohibits fundraising by registered student organizations and SEPCs, except as permitted by the , and prohibits reselling of items purchased with revenue from student activity fees.

As 91���� is a not-for-profit organization, all proceeds from licensing royalties on resale items will be used to support the College’s mission.

A series of office hours on this topic will be announced in the Campus Memo (in partnership with the Bookstore, DSA/SGA, Athletics, Academic Support, and DAR) as we finalize timing for Nexus representatives to visit campus in early September.

For more information, visit the Trademarks and Licensing web pages.