The Evolution of the Bowie State University Logo: A Symbol of History and Quality
Bowie State University (BSU), a distinguished public historically Black university in Prince George's County, Maryland, holds the distinction of being the oldest historically Black university in the state. From its humble origins in 1865, Bowie State has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of academic programs. As the university has grown and transformed, so too has its visual identity, with the logo serving as a crucial representation of its values and aspirations.
Early Beginnings and the Foundation of Bowie State University
The seeds of Bowie State University were sown in 1864 when the Baltimore Association for the Moral and Educational Improvement of the Colored People, comprised of 46 men including Joseph M. Cushing, united with the goal of establishing schools for the newly emancipated citizens of Maryland. This association, driven by a commitment to education and equality, laid the foundation for what would become Bowie State University.
In January 1865, the association opened its first school, School #1, in the African Baptist Church in Crane’s Building. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see the institution grow from a small school in Baltimore to a comprehensive university in Bowie, Maryland.
Transition and Growth: From Normal School to Bowie State College
In 1908, the state legislature authorized the Board of Education to assume control of the school, redesignating it as Normal School No. 3. By 1910, the state decided to relocate the school to Bowie, Maryland, purchasing a 187-acre tract formerly known as Jericho Farm. The school opened at the new location in 1911 with Don Speed Smith Goodloe as the first Black man to head the school as principal.
Under President Leonidas James, the school began a two-year professional curriculum in teacher education in 1925, which expanded to a three-year program in 1931. Teacher education continued to expand under the 25-year tenure of President William Henry. The Maryland State Legislature authorized the college to become Bowie State College in 1963, following the establishment of a liberal arts program. Under President Samuel Myers, the college established its first graduate degree program, offering the Master of Education in 1969.
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The Significance of the Bowie State University Logo
The Bowie State University logo holds immense significance as it represents the university at the highest level. It serves as an identifier and a stamp of quality, embodying the institution's history, values, and aspirations. The logo is a visual representation of Bowie State University's brand and is vitally important.
The primary logo, used for most applications, contains three basic elements: the flame, the wordmark, and the founding date. The wordmark and the flame symbol together act as an identifier and a stamp of quality. These elements combine to create a cohesive and recognizable symbol that represents the university's identity.
Elements of the Logo
The Flame: The flame symbolizes knowledge, enlightenment, and the pursuit of excellence. It represents the university's commitment to fostering intellectual growth and igniting a passion for learning in its students.
The Wordmark: The wordmark, "Bowie State University," clearly identifies the institution and reinforces its brand recognition. When identifying colleges, offices, and other entities within the BSU architecture, typeset the name using the font MillerText RomanSC in initial caps as shown.
The Founding Date: The inclusion of the founding date, 1865, serves as a reminder of the university's rich history and its legacy as the oldest historically Black university in Maryland.
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Guidelines for Logo Usage
To maintain consistency and professionalism in the use of the Bowie State University logo, it is important to follow a few simple guidelines. Unique logos are not allowed for any academic departments or offices, without exception. Use of any stylized, animated, hand drawn or other versions of the bulldog is not permitted. This undermines the logo system and brand consistency. The university seal is reserved for use by the Office of the President.
Bowie State University Today
In 1988, Bowie State College became Bowie State University under President James Lyons, reflecting significant growth in academic programs, enrollment and community service. Bowie State University gained recognition as a leader in the education of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
Today, Bowie State University is a regional comprehensive university serving central Maryland. The University offers 23 undergraduate majors, 19 masters' programs, 2 doctoral programs, and 12 graduate certificate programs. It also provides an honors program, Army ROTC, and athletics, fielding teams in ten intercollegiate sports in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. The University's interdisciplinary College of Excellence strengthens the freshman and sophomore experience, preparing students for later graduate and professional study.
The campus comprises 23 buildings with more than 988,897 square feet (92,000 m2) of space. It is located in Bowie, Maryland, between the metropolitan areas of Baltimore (25 miles) and Washington, D.C. (17 miles). An on-campus MARC Train station and Metrobus stops provide access to local transit. Twenty-three percent of students live on campus in seven residence halls. Campus events include cultural performances, lectures, and sporting events. The oldest building still in use is Harriet Tubman Hall, built in 1921. On campus, the Bowie State Satellite Operations Control Center (BSOCC) is an orbiting satellite operation and control center allowing students to gain hands-on experience. In 2003, the center went fully operational.
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