The New York Institute Of Technology athletic department on Monday afternoon unveiled a new logo and updated color scheme.
The new roaring bear replaces a more abstract and muscular bear that had been a symbol of the athletic department since the 1990s, while the color scheme moves from a lighter to darker blue and rich gold — similar to that of the New York state flag.
“Our goal in updating the New York Tech bear mascot and logotype was to create a brand identity that represents the school’s vision, and to create fresh, relevant and exciting engagement with the athletes and fans,” Sussner Design Co. founder and executive creative director Derek Sussner said. “The refreshed bear logo and custom font designs are inspired by Tech’s school spirit. We are excited to see the new logo out on the field and on the court.”
The institute’s athletic programs will primarily be referred to as New York Tech, though it’s formal name and NYIT remain acceptable alternatives.
“New York Tech is synonymous with success in our athletic department,” athletic director Dan Vélez said. “When we launched this process, it was important to all of us that while we were looking forward with this new brand identity we also made sure that we honored our successful history.
“We truly believe these new marks will continue to bring out the pride that all New York Tech alums share. With the university going through its own rebrand, we knew that we in athletics also needed to do the same. We recognized that we needed to stand out quickly and distinctly. What better way to do that than by using New York Tech as our primary athletic identity and adjusting our blue and gold to better reflect where we are from — New York?”
Located in Old Westbury, New York Tech is best known for its lacrosse program, which has won four NCAA Division II national titles. The Bears compete in the East Coast Conference.