Howard University unveils new Bison

There is a new Bison in D.C.

On Thursday, Howard University Athletics unveiled its new Bison logo, calling it "a symbol of strength, power and tenacity" to guide the university's 19 Division I sports teams.

"Getting a new symbol is exciting. It is the visual evidence of our Bison spirit and pride," said Howard Athletic Director Shelley Davis. "The new logo represents a fresh opportunity for our student-athletes to rally around the values that make Howard University great."

This would be the first change in the iconic image of the Bison in 40 years.

"Athletic competition is an important part of the Howard experience, and this new logo is evidence of our commitment to excellence in sports alongside our pursuit of excellence in academics and research," said Howard President Wayne A.I. Frederick. "The logo will provide a unique, unifying image which the entire Howard University community can share."

The development of a new logo began in 2014, using a process that engaged the whole Howard community, Davis said. In January 2015, the university solicited input from students, faculty, staff and alumni via social media, asking, "What makes you a Bison?"
D. Orlando Ledbetter, a 1984 graduate from Howard's School of Communications, called the new logo, "dynamic."

"It embodies the spirit of the Bison community," said Ledbetter, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's Atlanta Falcons beat reporter and the president emeritus of the Pro Football Writers of America. "I can't wait to see it featured by our athletic department as we make a turn in a new direction from a recent dark period, which included NCAA sanctions under the former regime."

Over the next several months, the logo and the associated word marks will become integrated across the athletic department.