Trademarks & Licensing

Protecting and Promoting the Western Brand

Western Washington University’s names, logos, and marks are valuable assets of the university. Our Trademark Licensing Program protects these marks, ensures consistent and high-quality use, and supports ethical production standards.

WWU partners with the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) to manage licensing. CLC reviews applications, grants approvals, provides official artwork files, collects royalties, and monitors trademark use.

Using WWU's Trademarks

WWU’s Trademark Use Policy applies to all uses of the university’s names, logos, and symbols. The policy requires that:

  • Any item displaying WWU marks must be approved by University Advancement before production.
  • Only official WWU units and registered student organizations may use university marks in conjunction with their names.

Important information for licensees:

  • The royalty rate is 10% of net sales (effective July 1, 2024).
  • Official artwork is available through CLC’s Logos on Demand system.
  • Using licensed vendors helps ensure compliance with both the policy and university brand standards.
  • External manufacturers and retailers must hold a license before producing or selling products featuring WWU trademarks.
  • All licensed vendors are required to follow responsible labor standards, with many participating in organizations such as the Fair Labor Association (FLA).
  • Misuse of trademarks or failure to comply with the Trademark Use Policy may result in loss of licensing rights.

By following the Trademark Use Policy and working within the Trademark Licensing Program, all audiences, both on campus and off, help protect and strengthen Western’s identity.

Get Started

For approvals, questions, or help navigating the process, contact:

Mark Brovak
Associate Vice President, Finance & Operations
The Foundation for WWU & Alumni
📧 Mark.Brovak@wwu.edu
📞 (360) 650-4283

Or connect directly with WWU’s licensing partner:

Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC)
290 Interstate North Circle, Suite 200
Atlanta, GA 30339
📞 (770) 956-0520
🌐 www.clc.com

Trademark and Licensing FAQs

The program ensures that Western Washington University’s names, logos, and marks are used consistently, appropriately, and with quality standards that reflect positively on the university. It also helps protect WWU’s identity and reputation.

All uses of “Western Washington University,” “Western,” “WWU,” “Vikings,” and any official logos, symbols, or graphics are covered by the Trademark Licensing Program.

Any external manufacturer, retailer, or individual producing products with WWU trademarks must be licensed through the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC).

Contact the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) to request an application and review WWU’s trademark guidelines.

Yes. All campus groups—including academic departments, administrative units, and registered student organizations—must request approval before using WWU marks on merchandise, promotional items, or giveaways.

Yes. Even if items are for internal use, giveaways, or promotional purposes, approval and use of licensed vendors are required.

Licensed vendors can access official artwork files through CLC’s Logos on Demand system.

For assistance on approvals, vendors, or navigating the licensing process, contact:

  • Mark Brovak – Associate Vice President, Finance & Operations, The Foundation for WWU & Alumni
  • Or the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) at www.clc.com