Grambling State Secures Federal Trademark for Iconic 'G' Logo

The university's powerful brand symbol now has enhanced legal protection.

Mar. 5, 2026 at 5:20pm

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Grambling State University has successfully obtained a federal trademark for its iconic 'G' logo, a move that strengthens the institution's ability to protect and leverage this valuable brand asset. The registration process was led by VP Penya Moses, who worked closely with legal counsel to demonstrate the distinctiveness and legacy of the 'G' symbol that has represented Tiger pride for generations.

Why it matters

Securing federal trademark protection allows Grambling State to better control the use of its highly recognizable 'G' logo, expand licensing opportunities, and ensure the integrity of the university's brand as it continues to build on its proud athletic and academic traditions.

The details

The federal trademark, registered under U.S. Trademark Registration No. 8148992, was a strategic and collaborative process that involved working with peer institutions to establish clear boundaries for each school's iconic marks. Grambling State president Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. emphasized that this achievement 'represents more than a legal milestone, it is a declaration of ownership over our history, our excellence, and our brand.'

  • Grambling State received the federal trademark for its 'G' logo on March 5, 2026.

The players

Grambling State University

A historically Black university in Grambling, Louisiana, known for its athletic excellence, particularly in football under the legendary 56-year tenure of coach Eddie G. Robinson.

Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr.

The president of Grambling State University, who celebrated the federal trademark as a declaration of the university's ownership over its history, excellence, and brand.

Penya Moses

The vice president at Grambling State University who led the strategic and collaborative process to secure the federal trademark for the university's iconic 'G' logo.

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What they’re saying

“This registration represents more than a legal achievement, it is a declaration of ownership over our history, our excellence, and our brand.”

— Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr., President, Grambling State University

“This was a detailed and strategic process that required patience, precision, and partnership. Working alongside Kean Miller and engaging constructively with peer institutions, we focused on demonstrating the distinctiveness and legacy of Grambling State University's 'G' — a symbol that has represented Tiger pride for generations.”

— Penya Moses, Vice President, Grambling State University

What’s next

Grambling State University plans to leverage its federally protected 'G' logo to expand licensing opportunities and further strengthen the university's brand identity and recognition.

The takeaway

Grambling State's successful federal trademark registration for its iconic 'G' logo underscores the importance of proactively protecting an institution's most valuable brand assets. This achievement will allow the university to better control the use of its highly recognizable symbol, expand licensing, and preserve the integrity of its proud legacy for generations to come.