Merchandising, Trademarks & Licensing

Every branded item representing William & Mary contributes to how the world sees us. This page outlines the standards and processes for producing merchandise, licensing university marks, and partnering with approved vendors. Following these guidelines protects the university’s reputation, ensures quality, and helps our brand shine wherever it appears.

Merchandise

All merchandise produced with the display of William & Mary marks must abide by the policies and procedures set forth by the W&M Licensing Administration and be purchased from a licensed vendor.

Trademarks

William & Mary marks are displays of registered symbols, insignia or other identifying marks such as the university’s name, abbreviation, symbols, emblems, logos, mascot, slogans, official insignia, uniforms, landmarks or songs owned by William & Mary. The unauthorized use of such material is a trademark infringement. Any production, display or sale of unauthorized products or services is a violation of the Federal Landham Trademark Act of 1946, the Federal Trademark Act of 1984, and the Commonwealth of Virginia’s infringement and unfair competition laws, among others. Such violations are subject to liability for damages, injunctive relief, attorney fees, and other penalties, civil and criminal.

If you are a member of the William & Mary community and are interested in filing a new trademark with the USPTO, with a William & Mary entity as the owner please contact the Licensing & Trademarks office.

Licensing

William & Mary retains the right to approve or disapprove any product submitted and no product using William & Mary’s marks may be produced without the approval of William & Mary’s Licensing office.

All merchandise that bears the name and/or official university artwork of William & Mary may only be produced by a licensed vendor and is covered by W&M's licensing policy.

Questions?

Contact [[licensing]] or review licensing common questions.