"California has decided that the University shall be the highest type of excellence in everything pertaining to education..."

Henry Douglas Bacon
Philanthropist
1877

The University of California is among the world's largest and most acclaimed institutions of higher learning. Chartered in 1868 as the state's land-grant institution, UC is a public university with a core mission of teaching, research and public service.

One of the most enduring symbols of the University of California is the official corporate seal, which contains the University motto, Fiat Lux ("Let There Be Light"). The Seal, designed by Tiffany & Co. of New York, was adopted by the University Board of Regents in 1910. The Seal represents the history, tradition and distinctiveness of the University of California.

We invite you to learn more about the history of the University's unique marks. This website also provides guidelines for their proper use by members of the University community, and illustrates appropriate presentation within a variety of media.

General information on use of University marks by members of the general public is also explained here. Inquiries on use of specific campus symbols and marks should be directed to the individual campuses.

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