Spirit marks are registered trademarks, including the Ramblin' Wreck and Buzz, that represent Georgia Tech's traditions and Institute spirit.
Spirit Trademarks
Spirit Mark Usage Guidelines
- Spirit Marks require prior approval from the Licensing and Trademarks office before use. No re-illustrations or changes can be made without permission.
- Spirit marks should not be juxtaposed with or replace the interlocking GT in the primary or extended logo.
- The Georgia Tech Athletics wordmark is exclusive to the Georgia Tech Athletics Association, its entities, programs, and sponsors.
- The Buzz spirit mark must be in Tech Gold (PMS 4515) when used with the Interlocking GT, primary marks, extended marks, or unit marks.
- The Buzz spirit mark can be in Tech Gold (PMS 4515) or Buzz Gold (PMS 124) if used alone, with no other trademarks.
- Illustrations of the physical, costumed Buzz mascot are not approved for use.
- The Institute’s vintage and historic logos and word marks are not permitted for campus use (Solo T, Classic Yellow Jacket Buzz, Techie Buzz, The Golden Tornadoes). The Institute licenses these marks through a restricted program titled “College Vault” for retail channels.
For information on licensing and use on merchandise, visit Licensing and Trademarks.
Campus Units and Spirit Mark Usage
Campus departmental units (or subdivisions) may use Spirit Marks to encourage Institute pride or school spirit. Spirit marks should not be juxtaposed with or replace the interlocking GT in the primary or extended logo, or unit combination logos. See the types of acceptable usage below.
Approved Uses of Buzz, Wreck
- Internal promotions targeting current students.
- Internal communications channels within campus units.
- External communications or promotions targeting potential undergraduate students.
Unacceptable Uses of Buzz, Wreck
- External-facing academic or research communications.
- Institute websites (including Colleges, Schools, centers, and labs).
- Signs and wayfinding applications.
- Instances with other trademarks.
- Cases where prior written permission from Institute Communications has not been obtained.
Registered Student Organizations and Spirit Mark Usage
Registered student organizations (RSOs) may use Spirit Marks to promote sports and recreational activities on campus and encourage Institute pride or school spirit.
- No re-illustrations, or changes to Spirit Marks can be made without prior approval from Licensing and Trademarks. No illustration of the physical, costumed Buzz mascot will be approved for use.
- RSOs can use APPROVED, alternative versions of Buzz. Alternative versions of Buzz cannot alter his silhouette, cover his eyes, or change the smile/teeth.
- RSOs that solicit sponsorships should be particularly mindful to avoid appearance of endorsement. This includes separating Georgia Tech’s Name and Marks from sponsor logos, and including specific language citing the sponsorship or support.
Departmental registered student organizations (DRSOs) are subject to the same use restrictions as departmental units, but may be permitted to use Spirit Marks in some instances, pending review and approval by Institute Communications.
See also the Use of Name standards for Student Use.
Buzz the Mascot
Two variations of the mascot represent the same institution, values, and spirit – one exists in the physical realm, one exists for a graphic representation.
- Buzz began as a costumed mascot.
- The Buzz logo was inspired by the costume.
- The costume was updated to better coordinate with the trademark.
- The Buzz trademark is kid-friendly.
Buzz-Mascot-Info
Buzz Appearances
In addition to Georgia Tech athletics events, Buzz attends events on and off campus, including engagement events, alumni galas, corporate mixers, and charity events. Buzz appearances are managed out of the Athletics department.
Questions about Spirit Marks?
For information on licensing and use on merchandise, visit Licensing and Trademarks.
Email gtlicensing@gatech.edu for inquiries about spirit marks and usage.