Bearkats Primary Logo
Sam Houston State University’s Bearkats have a storied history in the NCAA. The school's primary logo has been used to represent them since the early 1990s and is one of the most recognizable logos in college sports.
The original design featured an orange 'SH' with a white outline, signifying Sam Houston State University, surrounded by two black bear heads that were facing each other and wearing helmets with SHSU inscribed on them. This symbolized both strength and unity among those associated with SHSU athletics programs as well as paying homage to their mascot at the time -the Bearkat.
Over time, this logo underwent several changes but still maintained its core elements: two bear heads facing each other within an 'SH'. In 2012-13 it was updated again when they added a third element – two crossed swords behind the ‘S’ which further emphasized power and courage for their teams competing in NCAA Division I competition. Today this iconic emblem continues to be proudly displayed throughout campus buildings, and apparel stores across Texas & beyond!
Bearkats Products
2020 - Present
Diagonal Initials “S” and “H” with a paw print between them in orange.
A darker shade of orange.
2001 - 2020
Diagonal Initials “S” and “H” with a paw print on top of them in orange with white and blue trim.
1985 - 2001
A Bearkats head in white with orange highlights on the state of Texas in orange.
1978 - 1985
A front-facing growling bearkat’s head in orange and white.
1965 - 1978
A front-facing bearkat’s head is wearing a sailor hat with the initials “SHSC” in orange and white.
The school was known as Sam Houston State College (SHSC).
1955 - 1965
A front-facing bearkat’s head is wearing a sailor hat with the initials “SHSTC” in orange and white.
The school was known as Sam Houston State Teachers College (SHSTC).
1950 - 1955
A walking bearkat is wearing a sailor hat with the initials “STC” and a sweater with the block letter “T” in orange and white.
