Grambling State University Secures Trademark for Iconic G Logo

Grambling State University has secured federal trademark registration for its iconic stylized G logo, concluding a legal process that lasted nearly 30 years. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted the registration under U.S. Trademark Registration No. 8148992, formally protecting a symbol the institution has used since the 1970s.

The university first adopted the stylized G in 1974 as a tribute to alumnus Willie Davis. Davis was a dominant defensive end for the Green Bay Packers and won five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls.

Legal Challenges and Coexistence

The path to federal protection was complicated by the logo’s similarity to other nationally recognized marks. The Green Bay Packers have used an oval-shaped G since 1961, and the University of Georgia began using a similar mark in 1964 after receiving permission from the Packers.

Grambling State first attempted to trademark the logo in 1998, but the application was denied due to these similarities. The university submitted a new application in May 2025. To secure approval, the university negotiated agreements with both the Green Bay Packers and the University of Georgia to ensure the marks could coexist.

A central component of the agreement is the maintenance of clear visual distinctions through color schemes. While the Packers use green and gold and the University of Georgia uses red and black, Grambling State is required to use the logo exclusively in black and gold.

Institutional Impact

The university’s Division of Administration and Business Affairs, with legal assistance from the intellectual property team at Kean Miller, led the effort to overcome prior court refusals.

This registration represents more than a legal achievement; it is a declaration of ownership over our history, our excellence, and our brand.

Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr., President of Grambling State University

Dr. Lemelle noted that the university now stands on a stronger footing to protect and leverage one of its most powerful institutional assets. He specifically credited the leadership of VP Moses for working with Kean Miller to advance the university’s interests with clarity and confidence.

The trademark grants Grambling State exclusive rights to use and license the logo, which the university intends to use to expand national visibility, partnerships, and merchandise.

Federal trademark protection allows us to elevate and monetize the power of the Grambling State brand strategically, ensuring that when people see the black and gold ‘G,’ they know it stands for excellence, tradition, and enduring legacy.

Brandon A. Logan, VP for University Advancement and Innovation

Logan stated that the G remains instantly recognizable across generations of student-athletes, alumni, band members, and supporters worldwide.