Aug. 27, 1999

MILWAUKEE - University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and its athletics department unveiled the new athletic logo and marks tonight at a joint press conference/reception at the J. Martin Klotsche Center on the UWM campus.

The new logo will remain a panther, and will replace the "Running Panther" logo used since 1985. The new logo will be used on all uniforms, publications, arena signage, and officially licensed merchandise.

The new logo features a panther quickly turning its head with a growl, surrounded by the words, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Panthers that includes claw marks throughout the lettering. The angular turning of the Panther?s head shows quickness and alertness, giving it a sense of aggressiveness, while the bold colors show strength.

This unique logo embodies the new attitude and focus of the UWM athletics program and aligns itself with Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher?s vision for UWM as the premier urban university.

"Athletics is the window through which many people view UWM," she said. "The new Panther logo gives us another way to show the community who we are and to build on our image."

The aggressive Panther symbolizes a new era for UWM athletics and strengthens the perception of the program. It is intended to help foster "Panther Pride" that will help to recruit top athletes to UWM and gain support from the community.

"This new logo tells our recruits that being a Panther means being a part of a strong and proud program," said head men?s basketball coach Bo Ryan. "It sends a message that this program is competitive, confident and striving for success."

The new logo was designed by Thiel Design, located in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward. Thiel also designed the new UWM visual identity unveiled earlier in the year.

"We chose Thiel Design to create our new logo because of its local presence in the Milwaukee community and its understanding of what makes this a unique and special place to live, work and go to school," said Bud Haidet, director of athletics. "Furthermore, because they designed the new University logo unveiled earlier this year, they understand the University?s mission to become the nation?s premier urban university and were able to bring that knowledge into the design of the new logo."

Thiel Design, led by John and Norene Thiel, began work on the new logo last year. Founded in 1981, Thiel Design is an 18-person graphic design consulting firm specializing in the strategic design of brand identity programs, annual reports, print communications and electronic media. Its roster of clients range from Fortune 500 corporations to small company "start-ups." The firm also has developed design solutions for numerous universities, government agencies and non-profit organizations.

"Thiel Design is proud to have been involved in the design of the new UWM Panther identity," said John Thiel, president of Thiel Design. "The Panther exemplifies the new era and attitude of the UWM athletic program, provides a rousing symbol for ?Panther pride,? and will help to symbolize the renewed energy of UWM. We thank the dedicated staff of the UWM athletic department for the opportunity to work with UWM athletics."

The new UWM Panther is an aggressive, classic logo that will become synonymous with UWM athletics and its rich history dating back more than 100 years.