Youngstown State University Introduces New Brand

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown State University has introduced Know Y, a new brand that represents the university’s “pride, progress and purpose.”

“This rollout is more than just a change in words – it represents the essence of YSU’s spirit, values and vision for the future,” said Ross Morrone, YSU’s chief marketing officer. “I am excited about what it means for our campus and the trajectory of the university.”

The new brand isn’t just a “cosmetic alteration” – it “symbolizes the very heart and soul of YSU’s culture, principles and aspirations for the future,” the university says on its website. 

“The launch of YSU’s new branding is intentionally designed to get people talking and asking questions to learn more about the university. Comprising the strategically chosen words ‘Know’ and ‘Y,’ this brand wields a succinct vocabulary to convey profound meanings.”

According to the university, Know Y serves as a prompt for people – working as an answer and a question; references “knowledge,” the fundamental product of higher education; speaks to the university itself, and allows its many “hidden” attributes to come to the surface; gives the Youngstown “Y” permission to be used graphically, tying it to the university and the region; and invites everyone (students, alumni, faculty, donors, friends) to take a closer look at YSU.

With the new brand, the iconic block “Y” is no longer just a symbol, according to the university. “It has become a visual representation of the university’s pride, progress and purpose. This reimagined logo reinforces the university’s commitment to the community, forging a stronger bond between YSU and its surroundings.”

For more information on Know Y visit exploreysu.com/know-y.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.