Identity
Brand Position
How do we ensure what Clemson has to say resonates with our key audiences?

Brand Expression
The brand expression of Clemson University depends greatly on the audience that is experiencing it and the subject matter that is being communicated. Many very different but true-to-Clemson attributes can be demonstrated through our brand expression to best resonate with our audience. This is why we approach all our brand elements and systems as existing on a set of spectrums.
Any use of Clemson’s branding should fit into one or more of our brand spectrums. Because our people, places and the work we do are truly special, Clemson’s brand communication should not feel like a generic catchall. Instead, we look for ways that brand expression can lean into the attributes that make Clemson unique.
In our Fiercely Forward brand portal, communicators and marketers will find guidance in a more detailed brand kit that includes the following resources:
- Brand voice and tone
- Personas
- Audience matrixes
- Brand voice spectrums
- Sample brand creative
Brand Spectrums
The brand expression of Clemson University depends greatly on the audience that is experiencing it and the subject matter that is being communicated. Many very different but true-to-Clemson attributes can be demonstrated through our brand expression to best resonate with our audience. This is why we approach all of our brand elements and systems as existing on a set of spectrums.
Any use of Clemson’s branding should fit into one or more of our brand spectrums. Because our people, places and the work we do are truly special, Clemson’s brand communication should not feel like a generic catchall. Instead, we look for ways that brand expression can lean into the attributes that make Clemson unique. Because at Clemson, we are:
LOCAL
GLOBAL
ASSOCIATIONS: Editorial Approach, Photography, Research, Infographics
TRADITIONAL
MODERN
ASSOCIATIONS: Campus Architecture, Programming, Culture, Typography, Illustration
SPIRITED
STUDIOUS
ASSOCIATIONS: Tone of Voice, Color, Brand Personality, Photography
EXPRESSIVE
TECHNICAL
ASSOCIATIONS: Iconography, Illustration, Editorial Approach
Takeaway:
Brand spectrums function as a thought device to help communicators and creators consider how their creative executions align with the overall brand identity of Clemson and where opportunities exist to lean into authentic creative directions that will resonate with their audiences.