Instructional Leadership, emphasis: K-12 School Leadership (MEd)
South N A U campus sign with students sitting on top of it.
  1. NAU
  2. Marketing
  3. Building the NAU Brand

Building the NAU Brand

A collaborative journey

At Northern Arizona University, our brand isn’t just a logo or a tagline—it’s a reflection of our core values, our commitment to excellence, and our unique identity. The journey to articulate and refine the NAU brand has been a comprehensive endeavor, embodying the passion for learning and collaboration that defines our institution.

A man working on his computer.

Research and testing

Our brand journey began with rigorous research to collect quantitative data and build qualitative insights. We engaged with various stakeholders—current and prospective students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff, and Arizona residents—through surveys, focus groups, and interviews to understand what NAU represents and what sets us apart.

We also tested campaign concepts with prospective students. Their feedback guided us toward the “That’s NAU” campaign.

Three N A U students sit on a log at Buffalo Park in Flagstaff.

That’s NAU

The “That’s NAU” brand campaign encapsulates the essence of Northern Arizona University’s commitment to fostering a diverse and dynamic environment where students and faculty alike can flourish. It’s a rallying cry that celebrates the exceptional experiences, academic excellence, and community spirit that define the NAU brand. It also serves as an invitation to prospective students and partners, highlighting the limitless opportunities for growth and learning that NAU offers.

This statement is a promise of a transformative journey filled with learning and growth—at the Flagstaff campus, the statewide locations, and NAU Online. The NAU brand reflects who we are, what we stand for, and the life-changing experiences we offer.

Students looking at computer in bookstore, sitting in front of rows of N A U shirts.

Brand center

For more information, visit our Brand Center, where you can find additional resources and guidelines for creating compelling communications aligned with our brand.