Brand, Marketing, and Communications Guidelines

Trenholm State Community College – Brand, Marketing, and Communications Guidelines

At Trenholm State Community College, our brand is more than just a logo—it is the collective impression we leave with every student, parent, partner, and community member. Consistent and intentional use of our brand reinforces who we are and what we stand for: excellence in education, service to our community, and opportunities that transform lives.

Brand Identity Overview

Trenholm State’s brand reflects our commitment to academic achievement, student success, workforce development, and community impact. All marketing and communications materials should align with this identity and present the College in a positive, professional, and unified manner.

Core Brand Elements

Official Name: Trenholm State Community College

Abbreviation: Trenholm State (acceptable on second reference)

Tagline (if applicable): “Today’s College for Tomorrow’s World.”

Logo Usage

Always use the approved Trenholm State logo provided by the Office of Public Relations and Marketing.

Do not alter, stretch, recolor, or place the logo on busy backgrounds.

Clear space must be maintained around the logo to preserve its visual impact.

Unauthorized versions, alternate fonts, or homemade designs are strictly prohibited.

Color Palette

Maintain the College’s official colors across all media:

Primary Colors: [Insert HEX/RGB values for official colors—e.g., Garnet, Gold, Black]

Secondary/Accent Colors: [If applicable, list here]

Typography

Use approved fonts consistently in printed and digital materials:

Primary Font: [Insert name, e.g., Lato or Montserrat]

Secondary Font: [Insert name]

Photography and Imagery

Use high-quality, relevant images that reflect the diversity and energy of Trenholm State.

Avoid stock imagery that feels impersonal or inauthentic.

Ensure students, faculty, and staff featured in photography have granted photo release permissions.

Voice and Tone

Professional, supportive, and empowering

Avoid slang or overly casual language in official publications.

Always communicate with clarity, warmth, and purpose.

Social Media and Digital Content

All official College social media accounts must be approved by the Office of Public Relations and Marketing.

Social content should reflect the College’s values, highlight achievements, promote events, and engage the community.

Personal or program-level pages representing the College should follow brand standards and link to the main College channels.

Marketing Requests

All faculty, staff, and departments must submit marketing and promotional requests through the Help Desk Portal. This ensures proper scheduling, brand consistency, and alignment with the College’s communications strategy.

Partnerships and External Use

Any third-party or community organization wishing to use the College’s name or logo must obtain written approval from the Office of Public Relations and Marketing. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

For templates, logos, and brand assets, or to request support with a marketing project, contact:

Media and External Request Policy

Trenholm State Community College In compliance with the Alabama Community College System (ACCS)

Purpose

To ensure consistent, accurate, and professional communication, all media inquiries and external requests involving Trenholm State Community College must follow established procedures in accordance with policies set forth by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS). This policy supports the College’s mission and protects the integrity of its message and brand.

Media Inquiries

All requests for comment, interviews, statements, or appearances from members of the media (print, broadcast, or digital) must be directed to:

Office of Public Relations and Marketing

Email: trenholmcommunications@trenholmstate.edu

Website: https://www.trenholmstate.edu/MarketingandPR

Phone: 334-523-7473

Only the President or an official designee may serve as the spokesperson on behalf of Trenholm State Community College unless prior approval is given by the Office of Public Relations and Marketing.

Faculty and staff are not authorized to speak to the media on behalf of the College regarding institutional matters without prior approval.

External Requests

Requests from individuals or organizations outside the College—such as government entities, nonprofit organizations, businesses, or community partners—that involve:

Use of the College’s name or logo

Filming or photography on campus

Event collaborations

Participation in public panels or media projects

Requests for institutional data or official statements must be submitted in writing to the Office of Public Relations and Marketing for review and approval.

Requests that include public-facing materials must also comply with Trenholm State’s Brand and Marketing Guidelines.

Crisis Communication

In the event of a crisis, emergency, or developing situation involving the College: All media responses and updates will be coordinated exclusively through the Office of Public Relations and Marketing.

Employees and students are advised not to provide public statements or share unverified information.

Official communications will be issued through the College’s approved channels, including emergency alert systems, the website, and social media.

Compliance with ACCS Policies

Trenholm State Community College adheres to all communications, public relations, and media guidelines outlined by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS). This includes:

Ensuring alignment with ACCS strategic messaging

Protecting the confidentiality and rights of students and employees

Maintaining consistent public representation of the College and the System

Additional Notes

Unauthorized use of the College's name, logo, or brand assets is prohibited.

All campus departments and employees are encouraged to coordinate public-facing projects with the Office of Public Relations and Marketing to ensure appropriate support and compliance.

For questions or to submit a media or external request, please contact:

Office of Public Relations and Marketing

Trenholm State Community College

Email: trenholmcommunications@trenholmstate.edu

Website: https://www.trenholmstate.edu/MarketingandPR