Mascot Logo

Copyright 2023 College of the Mainland.

NCMPR Gold Award. Copyright 2023 College of the Mainland.

THE NEED
College of the Mainland’s original mascot logo exhibited a conflicting visual message in relation to the college’s long-standing mascot slogan “Fighting Ducks” which displayed a duck appearing as though it was fleeing. I identified the need for a mascot brand realignment.

MY APPROACH
In my proposal to executive leadership, the redesign would reflect a strong sense of determination, confidence and perseverance embodying what it means to be part of the COM student body (a Fighting Duck). Drawing from my strong art and design background, dozens of conceptual sketches were created as I worked with executives and internal stakeholders to develop a design that communicated the spirit and values of the college. The logo would also evoke a sense of cool that students and staff would be proud to wear. Typical logo considerations were tended to such as recognition at small and large sizes, as well as creating a series of color options for various applications.

THE RESULT
The new mascot logo for College of the Mainland has been very well-received raising the sense of school spirit and brand connection. The design proudly holds its own amongst other college mascots across the United States elevating COM’s brand as a reputable force in higher education. It has become a hot-selling identity at the college and is available on a wide array of items including hoodies, t-shirts and supplies. The mascot logo embodies a sense of belonging crafting the brand story of COM for current and future Fighting Ducks.

The mascot logo went on to win the Logo Wear gold award at the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) 2022 District 4 Medallion Awards spanning all of Arkansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming.

MY ROLE
Research and strategy, executive collaboration, conceptual illustrations, logo development, branding, brand guidelines, vendor apparel integration