Design submissions to become the University of New Mexico’s next, official University Seal are now underway. A university’s seal is used on official insignia, diplomas, Presidential medallions, and other official documents.

As part of the process, University Communications & Marketing (UCAM) will conduct information session(s) on Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. and Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. at the Student Union Building. These sessions are geared toward helping guide participants through the designing process.

Founded in 1889, UNM sits on the tradition homelands of the Sandia Pueblo. The original peoples of New Mexico – Pueblo, Navajo, and Apache Tribes – have significant connections to the land. Being the state’s flagship institution and one of only a dozen Hispanic Serving Institutions in the United States, the UNM Seal Committee is seeking an original design that exemplifies the university’s past, present and future.

University seals are often circular in form, with imagery that can be considered representative of the university. Imagery on the seal can be symbolic, scenic, abstract, architectural or figurative.

The University Seal is used in the most formal expressions of the University’s identity and must represent its traditions, culture and aspirations for the future. A campus committee, led by the Division of Equity and Inclusion, has worked to develop a submission process for a new seal design that encompasses these distinctive attributes.

Selected semifinalists for the new design will receive $505 upon submission of “camera-ready designs.” If the Board of Regents selects a final design to become the UNM Seal, the University will award the finalist of $1,889. For complete details, visit UNM Seal Call for Design Submissions

Submissions must be received by 12 p.m. MST on Nov. 15, 2019. Late or incomplete entries will not be considered.

Eligibility and submission requirement questions about the UNM Seal Call for Submissions can be directed at unmseal@unm.edu or by calling (505) 277-1238.