By Aidan McNeely
On July 29, William Peace University unveiled its new logo, marking the start of a new era for the historic school.
The redesign has already created excitement across campus, with many students and staff embracing the new logo. Most are enthusiastic about the change, while others believe it could be more athletic-friendly.
Karen Dunton, assistant vice president of marketing and communications, emphasized the significance of the change.
“The response to William Peace University’s new visual identity has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Dunton. “Current students, alumni, employees, and community partners have praised the logo and the story it tells. This new identity represents another pivotal moment in the evolution of Peace.”
For student-athletes, opinions are more mixed. Senior men’s soccer player and exercise and sports science major Ayden Miller said the logo works well academically, but prefers the old one for athletic use. Athletics will continue to use the previous logo for sports teams, but much of the gear now available bears the new logo.
“I like it. It’s simple but effective,” said Miller. “If you asked me to put that on the front of a jersey, I’d probably say, no, I’d probably stick with our old Pacer logo, since I think that just works out better athletically, but academically, I think it’s great.”
Assistant Professor of Communication, Art, and Design, as well as WPU alumna, Ana Teresa Galizes, commented on the importance of the details within the design.
“I think our new logo and new brand is really interesting,” said Galizes. “I like the natural elements, what they created to look like leaves to reflect our green camps, I think that’s really cool and I think they especially chose some really beautiful fonts.”
Senior biology major Michelle Watts agreed, noting the new logo connects to the university’s history.
“I like it better than just the WPU,” said Watts. “The one before was just kind of basic and I like how it incorporates the founding year…it kind of incorporates the history of the campus rather than just the initials of the college.”
Watts’ position shows a common theme among students who appreciate that the new design highlights the institution’s roots. For many, the addition of the founding year reflects the traditional qualities that relate to both students and alumni.
However, not all feedback has been favorable. Senior business administration major Grayson Scott expressed his overall opinion on the new logo both academically and athletically.
“I mean it’s alright, it kind of looks like someone went into Canva and put a few lines and then the year,” said Scott. “I feel like it could have a little more to it.”
Additionally, Scott added on about the plainness of the logo.
“It’s not very anything friendly,” said Scott. “It’s just bland, it doesn’t make you feel anything, it’s not a Pacer logo, or anything, it’s just some lines with the year.”
Despite many different opinions, the unveiling has created discussion among the Peace community. Logos serve as more than just a visual representation; they symbolize, show pride, and demonstrate unity. While some believe the design could have pushed further in creativity, others see it as a step toward a more modern campus culture.
The new logo is sparking conversations all over the Peace campus, and whether positive or negative, it’s here to stay. This new logo is the start of a brand new era at WPU.
