By Brandon Clifford
Campus Reacts to New Auto Restoration Logo
A new logo is set to replace the longstanding roadster silhouette that has represented the program for over a decade. However, few can figure out what this new logo is supposed to be. It is comprised of three white stripes which converge at the top of a red shield.
One alumni said, “It almost looks like an ‘M’ and almost looks like a road but ends up looking like neither.”
In a written statement from Amanda Gutierrez, VP for Auto Restoration,
“While the current logo carries a strong sense of nostalgia for many of us, myself included, we intentionally chose a design without a specific car or tools to better reflect the breadth of student interests and evolving nature of the automotive field. The new mark is meant to capture not just where we’ve been, but where we’re going.”
Images of the new logo were revealed in the first week of April and caused an immediate uproar in Templeton. students and faculty have now put their two cents in on the matter. All over campus first impressions were harsh. Excluding the countless reactions that were too vulgar to print, here are some anonymous quotes I received from students and faculty.
“Thats foul, I don’t understand it.”
“Its a little underwhelming.”
“Looks too corporate and minimalist.”
“Wheres the character?”
“Wheres the car?”
“Looks too general, it could be anything.”
“What in tarnation?”
“I get they are trying to appeal to a broader audience but this program isn’t for everyone.”
Several comparisons I heard included:
“FanDuel logo”
“Farmers insurance”
“train tracks”
“A participation badge”
“It reminds me of the logo that they designed in an episode of Community.”
Among the inauspicious sentiment, there have been a few favorable views. They have described the new logo as, “clean and simple,” noting the inclusion of the three pillars motif and an ‘M’ as strengths of the design. One faculty member called it, “sleek.”
“As we began planning our 50th anniversary, we saw an opportunity not only to celebrate the last 50 years but also look ahead to the future of the program. The new logo was designed with that balance in mind. The design of the new logo connects to the college M, representing scholarship, participation, and service. At the same time, it suggests the road stretching forward, symbolizing the paths our students take and the opportunities ahead of them,” said Gutierrez.
Some students and faculty expressed dismay that the design was outsourced. They highlighted that there are numerous Graphic Design majors and Art and Design AR majors who are capable of designing a more distinct logo that embodies the character of the program. In addition to the several faculty members who are professional artists.
The new logo is to be unveiled at a private dinner on May 1, the night before car show. The mounting backlash against this logo comes on the heels of other recent decision from administration, such as the termination of bingo, Two Dollar Tuesdays and bowling. All of which have fueled a growing animosity from students towards administration.
