University of Missouri-Kansas City Kangaroos Introduce New Logo

The University of Missouri-Kansas City unveiled a new primary logo on Thursday morning that illustrates “elements of strength, determination and a commitment to the (local) community.”

The university — in partnership with Old Hat Creative — solicited input from administrators, students, fans and other members of the community. And after nearly 11,000 responses, the Kangaroos opted for a new mark that pays homage to the past.

“Our new visual identity allows us to have a stronger connection with our students, fans, alumni and supporters on campus and in the local community,” said athletic director Dr. Brandon Martin. “It represents our continuous pursuit of comprehensive excellence and our focus on being Kansas City committed.”

As mentioned, the new logo uses elements from UMKC’s fighting kangaroo mark used by the athletic department from 2005-07, including his overall stance and crewneck sweater. It also intrudes a lighter shade of blue to the university’s current scheme of old gold and royal blue.

“We could not be more pleased with the way this project came together and the finalized product,” said Old Hat CEO and founder Zac Logsdon. “We are very proud to have been able to partner with the Kansas City Roos and roll out an identity that will represent their student-athletes and fans for many years to come.”

The Kangaroos plan to roll out a custom font that matches the wordmark in the primary logo later this summer.

One of four campuses that collectively constitute the University of Missouri, UMKC competes at the NCAA Division I level and is a member of the Western Athletic Conference. The Kangaroos sponsor 16 varsity sports, including men’s and women’s basketball; men’s and women’s cross country; men’s and women’s golf; men’s and women’s soccer; softball; men’s and women’s tennis; men’s and women’s indoor and outdoor track and field; and volleyball.

UMKC’s mascot — Kasey the Kangaroo — has come a long way since it first appeared on the cover of a student-made humor magazine in the late 1930s. Among its first designers was legendary cartoonist Walt Disney, who had a studio near campus at the time.