By: Brian Williams
Milligan’s new athletic logos were released last Friday in an attempt to aid the college in staying on the cutting edge of modern society.
With every new season come new life, new dreams, and new hope. With every new student comes a mind capable of being molded into the next CEO or business owner. With every new Milligan College President comes a new era, defined by the truths and principles instilled in the hearts and minds of those who surround him. And with every new era, comes a new athletic logo.
Although that may not be true, the new logos are soon to be seen everywhere.
Designed by Art Brown, Milligan Professor and Creative Services Coordinator, the new logos maintain the traditional aesthetics of previous logos, but add an edgy, 21st century form.
Lee Fierbaugh, Vice President for Enrollment Management, as well Dean of students Mark Fox, and Public Relations Director Chandrea Shell, have been considering a change for a few years now.
“We’ve talked from time to time over the past couple years about the need to update the athletic logo,” said Fierbaugh.
But recently, the mealtime conversation has become a reality. With input and help from all of Milligan’s coaches, they decided it was time for an actual change.
“We met twice with all the coaches to discuss and review options,” said Fierbaugh. “It was clear from the coaches that they wanted to maintain the Milligan “M” and a very traditional collegiate look that wouldn’t be outdated in a couple years, but it needed to be updated and have a few different options to meet their various needs.”
And they did just that.
Along with interviewing the coaches, Fierbaugh and her gang also received the opinions of student-athletes as well as members of the SGA.
“Each SGA member (25 members) was asked by Lee Fierbaugh to fill out the logo survey,” said SGA President Shannon Slaughter. “I believe it was a necessary change. As fast as technology is developing, it doesn’t take long for a logo to look dull and outdated.”
Slaughter is not the only person who is energized about the change.
“I’m really excited about the new logos and the branding possibilities,” said women’s basketball coach Rich Aubrey. “With the block M and the more traditional lettering, we stay connected to our history, but the new buffalo adds a contemporary element as well.”
Golf coach Tony Wallingford is impressed more by the versatility.
“I love the new logos and the flexibility in their use. These logos will provide a colorful and positive identity for our teams,” said Wallingford. “We’ve come a long way since the day we had to cut and paste a copy of the buffalo on something to use as our logo.”
Although the design of the logo has been released, apparel and memorabilia are not yet available.
“Several of the coaches have already ordered items this week, said Fierbaugh. “It will also soon be available on apparel in the bookstore and on the athletic website.”
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