The new Minerva Identity Program for UNCG will not be mistaken for that of any other university. Reflecting both our rich past and promising future, the symbol of Minerva encapsulates all that the University has been and all that it aspires to be. Minerva has been a part of campus from the first diploma bearing her likeness in 1894 to the statue erected at Elliott University Center in 2003.

To the ancient Romans and Etruscans, Minerva was the goddess of wisdom and war, and the patroness of artisans and all people whose handiwork was guided by their minds. She symbolized wisdom, intelligence, inventiveness, accomplishment, the arts and commerce. For UNCG, Minerva signifies passage into the world armed with knowledge, skills and mental prowess.

The logo, inspired by the campus statue, gifted to the University by the Class of 1953, draws together many of the values that define UNCG including scholarship, expertise and leadership. Minerva’s posture and gesturing hand combine grace and power. The upward perspective suggests aspiration and leadership. Yellow rays of light in the background represent knowledge and the future. Pulling all of these aspects together into a traditional, yet clean, contemporary design, creates an ideal and unique symbol for UNCG.