Sonoma State unveiled new logos and wordmarks earlier this week, marking the first update to the athletic department’s branding since it introduced Seawolves as the new mascot in 2002.
“These marks emphasize our distinct brand, which is clear, concise and bold,” athletic director Dr. Nicole Annaloro said. “We are thrilled with the outcome and believe our athletic marks demonstrate our commitment to ongoing improvement and innovation at Sonoma State.”
Sonoma State sought input from student-athletes, coaches and university personnel to develop the new logo and wordmarks, which now bring the athletic department in line with the academic identity that was launched in 2021, which already includes the new secondary paw logo.
Sonoma State is located in Rohnert Park, California, approximately 50 miles north of San Francisco. The Seawolves have 13 varsity sports that compete at the NCAA Division II level in the California Collegiate Athletic Association, Pacific West Conference and Western Water Polo Association.
The school’s original nickname was the Cossacks as a nod to the Russian settlers at Fort Ross, but the term was later deemed offensive and a renaming committee was formed. Seawolves was chosen in 2002 as a nod to Sonoma native Jack London, author of “The Sea-Wolf.”