New Logo Ushers in New Era

With its new logo and graphic identify, Samuel Merritt University establishes a bold and distinctive look—one that is energetic and aspirational while also embracing the University’s 111-year history, mission, and values.

Steadfast in Our Mission

Our look is new, but SMU’s commitment to its mission and values is unwavering. More than ever, we’re dedicated to training health science students to become highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals who positively transform the experience of care for diverse communities. Our new logo captures that mission.

The outer shield, for example, signifies strength and protection associated in partnership with the diverse student population and wider community the University serves through outreach programs.
Waves represent unstoppable energy and are reflective of the University’s geographic location to the Pacific coast.
The year of founding, 1909, signifies the longevity and stability of the University which has grown over the years from a nursing program to a college and then university with 15 degree programs in several disciplines.
The decorative “M” refers to “Merritt” and is an adaptation to one of the University’s early and most recognizable graphics. Redrawn to add a contemporary twist, it harkens to the original mark used for decades.
The torch represents education, enlightenment, and opportunity while being a beacon of light to show the pathway to success.
Rays of light behind the torch and over the waves signify hope while also invoking a sense of a new dawning.

“I am very pleased to share this new logo which reflects our forward movement and energy as we enter a new era in the University’s history,” said President Dr. Ching-Hua Wang. “We are an institution on the move. We have ambitious plans for a new campus and expanded degree programs to remain in step with the changing face of healthcare while we remain active participants in delivering needed services and outreach to the communities that surround each of our campuses.”

Have a logo request?

If you'd like to use the logo to promote your program or event, send us an email request. Please, include how you plan to use the logo, who your audience is, and when you need the logo by.