California State University, Stanislaus serves a diverse student body of more than 10,000 at two locations in California’s Central Valley—in Turlock and at the Stockton Campus. It is a Hispanic-serving institution, with 74 percent first-generation college students.
Entering our 60th year, we embarked on an initiative to better understand our story. This knowledge would ultimately help us express what makes Stan State special, as well as highlight the success of our students, and the vibrancy of our campus and community.
We conducted a comprehensive suite of qualitative and quantitative research to gather the input of thousands of Stan State students, faculty, staff, and alumni, as well as our many important community stakeholders. The resulting data informed a new, compelling brand narrative that connects deeply with not only current but also incoming faculty, staff, and students who feel embraced, supported, and welcomed from their first step on campus. That’s because our brand is more than a logo or a layout; it is about language, behaviors, actions, and initiatives that are authentic and support the brand narrative every day across every platform.
Launching in the midst of a global pandemic was just the beginning of our journey to embrace our newly articulated brand. We continue to navigate the challenges brought on by COVID-19 and the changing social justice climate. Leveraging this strong new brand allows us to rise up and address adversity, when others have stepped back. Because at Stan State, we #StanUp for each other and for what we believe in.
