After a long and extensive process that took months, Valparaiso University has finally adopted a new nickname and logo to be known by. Valparaiso University’s new nickname is the “Beacons.” This name was chosen after receiving thousands of suggestions from student-athletes, alumni, and other key staff members at the university.  

The Valparaiso community sought a name that paid homage to the university’s rich history and distinctive characteristics. They also sought a name that could symbolize the fact that graduates of the university would achieve success regardless of where their journey took them after graduation. It was decided that the name “Beacons” is most fitting.

Given that the name “Beacon” happens to be the name of the university’s yearbook, the decision was made simpler. It also connected with the university’s slogan. “In Thy Light We See Light.”

The university’s old name was the Crusaders. This nickname was retired by the university four months ago. The term “Crusaders” has gained increasing significance over the years. It has been linked because the terms and symbols of the name have recently been linked to the Ku Klux Klan. University officials decided that the name encouraged violence and religious tyranny.

Valparaiso University’s name change was part of a series of notable changes made by entities seeking to distance themselves from names that have historically carried negative undertones. This has recently happened with the Cleveland Guardians' name change. It has happened with the Washington football team. 

Of course, a new name for an entity means a new logo. The logo is contained within a yellow background. This bright and sunny background accentuates the essence of the new direction that Valparaiso University is aiming for. If you desire to be a beacon, it is beneficial to have a background that shines brightly. 

The center of the yellow background contains the primary logo. This circular logo contains a dark green background. The left side of the logo includes the words “Valpo Beacons.” The word “Valpo” is in a bolder font, while “Beacons” is in a regular font. The left side of the logo features a yellow lighthouse.  The logo depicts the lighthouse beaming light into the sky, contained within it. The logo is white.

In the middle of the yellow background, a white glow is visible, positioned directly above the green background of the primary logo. It almost resembles the glow you would see near a beaming sun.