Traditions : Trademark and Licensing Services (2024)

Brutus Buckeye:

Prior to 1965, Ohio State had no mascot. It was that year students in Ohio Stater’s, Incorporated (a long-standing student service organization that is still in existence today), took matters into their own hands and launched an effort to create a mascot for the school.

In October of 1965, students Ray Bourhis and Sally (Huber) Lanyon began to build a papier-mâché mascot at the Pi Beta Phi sorority house in the off-campus area, with the financial support of Stater’s. The mascot, without an official name at the time, made its debut at Ohio Stadium on October 30, 1965, at Ohio State’s Homecoming football game against Minnesota. Shortly after this premiere, Stater’s hosted a contest to identify a name for the mascot, which ultimately was announced as Brutus Buckeye.

Because the papier-mâché Brutus was not durable for Ohio weather conditions, a fiberglass mascot was created. At the conclusion of the 1965 football season, management of Brutus was turned over to Block “O,” another Ohio State student organization dedicated to promoting and enhancing school spirit and pride; the organization is also still in existence today. Block “O” managed the mascot until 1974, when Ohio State’s Athletics department took control, where he has been lovingly cared for ever since.

Brutus has undergone a number of updates through the years, and continues to appear at Ohio State sporting and university events. In 2015, Brutus Buckeye celebrated his 50th birthday, and is still one of the most beloved figures at Ohio State. For more information on the history of Brutus, visit: https://www.osu.edu/features/2015/happy-birthday-brutus.html.

Traditions : Trademark and Licensing Services (2024)

FAQs

What is trademark licensing used for? ›

In trademark licensing, a trademark owner (Licensor) grants permission to another (Licensee) to use that trademark on mutually agreed terms and conditions.

Who owns the USC trademark? ›

In 2009, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office determined the “USC” belonged to the University of Southern California.

Can I use the USC logo? ›

Formal Logotype

Documents, publications or merchandise items displaying the university seal imply official sanction by the university and can only be used upon special request.

Does a trademark license have to be in writing? ›

Get it in Writing

For this reason, it is highly recommended that a written agreement is created and signed by both the licensor and the licensee. A written agreement will provide both parties with a clear understanding of the licensee's rights and will be easier to enforce should a trademark dispute arise.

Why would I need a trademark? ›

A trademark can help you distinguish your products or services from those of your competitors, and it can also give you a legal weapon to fight against infringement. Although the process of applying for a trademark can be complex and time-consuming, it's worth the effort to safeguard your brand identity.

How much can I get paid to license my trademark? ›

While others prefer to receive a percentage of gross revenue earned by the company that is using their trademark. Depending on the perceived value of your trademark, this licensing fee can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousands.

What is USC recognized for? ›

USC is also well known for its Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism and its highly esteemed School of Cinematic Arts, which has graduated students such as directors Judd Apatow and George Lucas.

Do you need permission to use a university logo? ›

A licensing agreement is usually needed to use a college logo for commercial use. Most universities, like Notre Dame, have a website license page for inquiries. Once you get a license from a college or university, there will be specific terms and conditions for you to abide by.

What logos can you use without permission? ›

You need permission to use a logo unless it is for editorial or information purposes, such as when a logo is used in a written article or being used as part of a comparative product statement. Other than these two instances, you should never assume you can use a trademarked logo.

What words Cannot be used in trademark? ›

Generic terms can never receive trademark protection. They are words or symbols that communicate what type of product or service is being offered. “Email” and “modem” are generic terms. Similarly, “cereal” is a grass, the edible part of which is used for a breakfast food.

Do you need an LLC to file a trademark? ›

Yes, you should get an LLC first before a trademark because the trademark application will need to identify the LLC as the trademark owner. You should create an LLC or business entity before you file a trademark application.

What Cannot be considered a trademark? ›

Descriptiveness / lack of distinctiveness: Terms that literally describe items as they are ("tomato," "beer," "copper" or any other common word) cannot be trademarked as they must be reserved for general use. Similarly, marks that fail to indicate a particular commercial enterprise to consumers will not be registered.

What would trademark be used for? ›

A trademark is used for goods, while a service mark is used for services. A trademark: Identifies the source of your goods or services. Provides legal protection for your brand.

What is the use of trademark permission? ›

Trademark permission provides a business or individual the legal right to use a trademark that is owned by another business or individual. This permission is also referred to as licensing.

What are the main benefits of a registered trademark? ›

Trademarks and service marks give owners the exclusive right to use the mark to identify goods and services. This protection allows business owners to achieve commercial recognition for their goods and services and reap the financial gains associated with an established reputation and a distinctive presence.

What happens if you don't use a trademark? ›

If three years pass and you haven't used your trademark, the courts will consider the mark abandoned. If you don't use your trademark, you will have no legal recourse if you try to enforce your rights later on.

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