Policies

UC’s trademarks may not be used in any way that discriminates or implies discrimination against any persons or groups based on age, ancestry, belief, color, creed, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status, or in any other way that would be a violation of UC’s anti-discrimination policies or practices.

All use of UC's trademarks on products require prior approval from the Office of Trademark Licensing & Brand Engagement, even if the proposed uses do not involve the sale of a product (i.e. promotional items for conferences or meetings, items for giveaways, etc.). See full policy linked above. 

UC trademarks may not be used in any manner that suggests or implies University of Cincinnati’s endorsement of other organizations, companies, products, services, political parties or views, or religious organizations and beliefs. If an outside organization would like to sponsor a University college, department, organization, or event, please refer to the University's Sponsorship Request Process for appropriate approval.

The University of Cincinnati Trademarks & Licensing Program recognizes that on some occasions it may be desirous to incorporate a patriotic theme with University trademarks. Out of utmost respect for our nation's flag and those who serve to protect it, we have adopted a licensing policy which mirrors the U.S. Code on "Respect for the Flag", below is that code provision.

U.S. Code, Chapter 10, Section 176 Respect for Flag
(g) The flag should never have placed upon it, nor any part of it, nor attached to it any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing of any nature.
(i) The flag should never be used for advertising purposes in any manner whatsoever. It should not be embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs and the like, printed of otherwise impressed on paper napkins or boxes or anything that is designed for temporary use and discard.  Advertising signs should not be fastened to a staff or halyard from which a flag is flown.
(j) No part of the flag should ever be used as a costume or athletic uniform. However, a flag patch may be affixed to the uniform of military personnel, firemen, policemen, and members of patriotic organizations. The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. Therefore, the lapel flag pin being a replica, should be worn on the left lapel near the hear.
For other information regarding flag usage, please refer to the U.S. Code.

The University of Cincinnati will not approve the use of UC trademarks in connection with products or designs that present an unacceptable risk of liability or could be harmful to the mission or image of the institution. Some of these include, but are not limited to the following:

• Products that could be used to injure or kill;
• Alcohol products;
• Tobacco-related products;
• Drug-related products;
  
• Sexually suggestive products or language;
• Art depicting or implying the use or endorsement of: drugs; tobacco products; firearms or other weapons; racist, sexist, hateful, demeaning or degrading language or statements; profanity; sexual acts; statements impugning other universities.

All sponsorships require prior written approval from the Office of Trademarks & Licensing, even if the sponsorship does not involve the sale of a product. It is the general policy of the university to refrain from endorsing any particular entity, product, or service. Accordingly, sponsorships should recognize the entity, product, or service's support of the university rather than the university's support of the entity, product, or service. 

Any and all uses of the names, numbers, and/or images of UC student athletes must comply with University policies and NCAA regulations. Questions should be directed to the Trademarks & Licensing Office, who will consult as appropriate with UC Athletics.