Georgetown University, established in 1789 and based in Washington, D.C., is the oldest Catholic educational institution in the United States. Rooted in Jesuit traditions, the university has evolved into a globally recognized center for higher education while maintaining its Catholic heritage and commitment to academic excellence.

Meaning and History

Founded by John Carroll, the first U.S. archbishop and a key advocate for independence, Georgetown University began as a beacon of Catholic education. The campus features a monument to its founder, symbolizing its rich history. Despite its Catholic roots, the university has embraced a secular and inclusive approach, with diverse faculties and a multicultural environment.

Georgetown operates international branches in Italy, Qatar, and Turkey. With over 7,500 undergraduate and 11,000 graduate and doctoral students, the university has a reputation for producing influential leaders. Among its notable alumni are 12 heads of state, including former U.S. President Bill Clinton.

In addition to its academic prestige, Georgetown is home to a robust athletic program. The Georgetown Hoyas, particularly the men’s basketball team, are celebrated for their achievements across 23 sports disciplines.

What is Georgetown University?

Georgetown University is a private higher education institution renowned for its rigorous academics, diverse student body, and urban campus in Washington, D.C. Ranked among the top 70 universities in the U.S., Georgetown balances tradition with modern innovation, attracting students from around the globe.

Visual Identity

Georgetown University’s visual identity revolves around its heraldic seal, a design rooted in the Great Seal of the United States. Unlike many universities that separate their seal from their primary logo, Georgetown integrates its seal into the core of its branding, showcasing its historical significance.

Georgetown University Logo

The Georgetown logo features a detailed emblem placed above elegant uppercase cursive text. Rendered in refined blue lines, the logo projects sophistication against a white background.

The emblem is an oval medallion displaying an eagle holding a cross in one talon and a globe in the other, symbolizing global reach and faith. Encircling the eagle are 16 five-pointed stars within a double-frame border, inscribed with classic serif lettering. A leafy wreath surrounds the medallion, and the design is completed by a datemark beneath it.

Georgetown Hoyas Logo

The athletic teams of Georgetown, known as the Hoyas, feature a modern and dynamic visual identity. Their logo highlights a bold, capital “G” in deep blue with a smooth gold outline. The thick lines and sharp tail of the letter resemble a claw, creating a sense of strength and agility. This contemporary design contrasts sharply with the traditional university seal, underscoring the athletic program’s forward-thinking spirit.

Font and Color

The university’s main logo employs an italicized serif typeface in uppercase beneath the seal. Fonts such as Adobe Caslon Semibold Italic or Janson Regular Italic inspire the design, with custom touches like extended and curved letter tails adding elegance.

The university’s official color palette is a calming blue on a white background, symbolizing trust, professionalism, and respect for its legacy. The Georgetown Hoyas logo, with its blue and gold combination, adds vibrancy and energy to the athletic branding.

Georgetown University’s branding reflects its dual identity: a deeply historical institution with modern global influence. The seal signifies its rich Catholic heritage and academic excellence, while the Hoyas logo embodies its dynamic athletic culture. Together, these elements create a timeless yet forward-looking identity for one of the United States' most prestigious universities.