By By Elizabeth Pierdominici and Margaret Hawryluk

The University released new logos for the school and Pride Athletics in an effort to further advance the University’s image.

“The logo is a simplified version of the crest, not a replacement,” Melissa Connolly, vice president of University relations said.

The redesign project lasted for one year and involved the input of students, alumni, faculty, boosters, staff and administration. During the spring semester, students were asked to vote for their favorite logo online through “My Portal” after a focus group had convened.

“About 2,000 students expressed that they wanted a logo that symbolized the University’s movement toward the future with a semblance of tradition,” Connolly said.

The traditional crest will continue to be used for official documents and in such ceremonies as commencement and convocations.

The University’s new logo, known as the “shield,” was designed by advertising agency Powell New York. The agency also designed the new logo for Pride Athletics.

“The new athletic logo defines what the Pride is to its fans,” Connolly said. “It depicts unity among men and women’s teams, movement and determinations.”

The logo, which depicts a male and female lion in motion with the words “Hofstra Pride” underneath, will be used exclusively by University athletics.

Connolly said about 15 years ago University teams were referred to as “The Flying Dutchmen,” sharing the name of a ship. When women’s teams were incorporated at the University, the name was changed to “Hofstra Pride,” referring to a pack of lions working for a common goal.

“Now, the new logo really allows the University and the athletic department to embody the idea of unity, which really makes it exciting for students and fans,” Connolly said.

The new athletic logo. (Image Courtesy Hofstra University)

(Image Courtesy of Hofstra University)