Cornell Big Red represents the athletic teams of Cornell University, a prestigious Ivy League school founded in 1865. Located in Ithaca, New York, Cornell is renowned for its academic excellence and research achievements. The university’s athletic program, known as Cornell Big Red, is recognized as one of the top programs in the country, competing in NCAA Division I sports.

History of the Cornell Big Red Logo

The history of the Cornell Big Red logo mirrors the university’s evolution, balancing its elite academic status with its athletic prowess. The Big Red teams are part of the Ivy League, a group of eight universities known for their academic prestige and rigorous selection process. Cornell’s athletic teams are most notable for their lacrosse, wrestling, and hockey programs, which have earned national recognition.

2002–2018: The Original Big Red Logo

From the early 2000s until 2018, the Cornell Big Red logo featured a fierce-looking brown bear with a bold black outline. The logo included a two-level inscription: “Cornell” in small white letters on top, and “Big Red” in large red characters on the bottom, framed by a strong black border. The menacing bear symbolized strength and tenacity, representing Cornell's athletic spirit.

2018–Present: The Updated Logo

In 2018, the Cornell Big Red logo underwent a significant redesign, modernizing the visual identity while retaining the aggressive and confident aesthetic. The bear was reimagined, now hugging a large, bold red “C.” The updated design features a double white and black outline around the “C” to provide contrast and sharpness. The minimalist design of the lettering, combined with the dynamic posture of the bear, enhances the overall sense of power and determination.

Font and Color Scheme

The Cornell Big Red logo features a bold, geometric “C,” crafted in a custom typeface with an octagonal shape. This modern interpretation of the letter “C” balances sharp angles with smooth curves, reflecting both strength and elegance. The color palette for the Big Red logo centers around Cornell’s official colors: Carnelian Red and white. The design incorporates brown and black accents, with the brown adding depth to the bear’s features and the black used for the outlines, making the logo stand out.

The current logo reflects both the historical significance of Cornell University and its athletic tradition, making the Big Red teams instantly recognizable and symbolizing their competitive edge.