Visitors to Lamar University this fall will notice a new look and a new slogan around campus.
“After our big centennial last year here at Lamar University, we now transitioned into our new branding campaign for the next five years — ‘See For Yourself,’” René Latiolais, director of LU marketing communications, said.
New signage, light pole banners and large wall posters displaying “See For Yourself” are visible around campus. As part of an extended advertising campaign, Lamar University is spreading its message through billboards, TV, radio, and print ads throughout Southeast Texas, Latiolais said.
“What we heard from many people at Lamar is that it isn’t until you’re here that you really understand what Lamar University is and what it can provide,” she said. “‘See For Yourself’ is an invitation for everybody to find out for themselves.”
The campaign is designed to spark curiosity while also serving as a call to action, Latiolais said.
“The primary goal of a brand campaign is to recruit potential students,” she said. “And it’s also enhancing the experience of our students that are already here.”
Latiolais said the developing the new brand campaign, from conceptualization to its launch, was an extensive process.
“Back in fall 2023, we met with focus groups and asked them, ‘What is Lamar University for you?’” Latiolais said.
The focus groups consisted of students, faculty members, alumni and staff.
“We gathered all that data from the focus groups and started brainstorming in our marketing department,” Latiolais said. “The ideas kept evolving, until we came up with ‘See For Yourself.’”
Once the slogan was approved, the project was assigned to Amanda Toups, creative services assistant director, and her team took over. In the design process, even subtle choices such as font and letter size play a crucial role, Toups said.
“It is important to stay consistent within our brand,” she said.
After experimenting with various designs, Toups said the minimalist lettering with a red surrounding box was agreed upon.
“We wanted the red line to emphasize the word ‘Yourself’” she said. “By doing so, we want prospective students to actually see themselves here at Lamar.”
Flags featuring the slogan are displayed in the Setzer Student Center with messages like, “See Opportunity,” “See Experience,” “See Community,” and “See Impact.”
“All of our guiding principles of Lamar University’s strategic plan can be simplified down to one thing — student success,” Latiolais said. “And that is what they should see for themselves.”
The new campaign seems to be well received by students on campus.
““I think the large billboards and new wall designs are very cool,” Zach Gilmore, Beaumont senior, said. “I like the new approach. It definitely feels fresher than the previous campaign.”
The logo also drew praise from Alex Pinti.
“I like the simple aesthetic and minimalist design,” the Houston senior said.
