The University of Arizona’s logo, with its iconic "Block A," stands as a proud symbol of tradition and excellence, embodying both the institution’s heritage and its commitment to academic and athletic achievement.

Meaning and History

The "Block A" logo has been a part of the University of Arizona's identity since 1904. The logo was officially registered as the school’s emblem in the UA Student Body Constitution, marking the beginning of a long-lasting tradition. Over time, the logo has become synonymous with the university, representing its strong foundation and legacy.

In 1970, University of Arizona president John P. Schaefer emphasized the significance of the logo in an official communication, clarifying that the "Block A" should stand as the sole, free-standing letter representing the university. This marked an important reaffirmation of the logo's central role in the institution’s visual identity.

In 1982, the university established its first comprehensive set of symbols and seals, giving the "Block A" a more formalized structure within the larger branding framework.

The most recent significant change came in 1989, when the logo was slightly modified to feature two "A"s, one inside the other. This design evolution symbolized excellence in both academic and athletic endeavors, reinforcing the university's dual commitment to educational achievement and sports excellence.

Current Emblem

The current emblem retains the core element—the "Block A"—but with the addition of two interlocking "A"s, which serve as a visual metaphor for the university’s holistic approach to excellence. The logo continues to be a powerful representation of the University of Arizona’s history and its dynamic presence in both the academic and athletic worlds.

Font

The typography used in the University of Arizona logo is a serif, all-caps typeface. While its elegance may be subtle at smaller sizes, the type’s sleek and legible lines become more apparent when enlarged, contributing to the logo’s clarity and sophistication. The font maintains a balance of timelessness and modernity, perfectly complementing the university’s prestigious identity.

Color

The University of Arizona’s color scheme is rooted in tradition, with cardinal red and navy blue serving as the school’s primary colors. These two colors have been the official shades of the university since 1904, as outlined in the original Student Body Constitution. The use of cardinal red and navy blue speaks to the school’s long-standing history and commitment to excellence, while white is also an important element in the logotype.

For situations where the primary color palette is not suitable, the university allows for the use of an extended color palette developed by Leatrice Eiseman and Associates. This secondary palette includes 10 additional colors, ranging from dark brown (Pantone 4625U) to purple (Pantone 259U) and aqua (Pantone 3295U), providing flexibility in various design contexts while maintaining the institution’s visual integrity.

Legacy

The University of Arizona's "Block A" logo is more than just a mark—it's a symbol that connects the past to the present, representing the institution’s core values of excellence in academics, athletics, and tradition. Its enduring design has made it one of the most recognizable logos in collegiate branding, continuing to serve as a beacon of pride for students, alumni, and fans alike.