Des Moines Area Community College has removed nearly all of its digital and physical assets featuring its new “D” logo after a federal judge granted Drake University’s request for a temporary injunction against its use.
Drake University filed a lawsuit in federal court against DMACC this summer in an effort to redo the community college’s name, which included a new letter “D” logo in a block-style font similar to the university’s independent brand. The lawsuit alleges trademark infringement, unfair competition, injury to corporate reputation and unjust enrichment.
Drake University mascot Griff II wears his trademark jacket.
US District Court Judge Stephanie Rose issued the temporary injunction in late November, saying the two logos were almost identical. He also noted in his decision that there was some evidence of “intentional copying,” as the color and font were strikingly similar.
DMACC President Rob Denson said the new logo has been removed from websites and campuses in accordance with the decision. The college has filed an appeal against the decision, but “we’re not holding back,” Denson said. “We have been working very hard to comply with the court order.”
Some items with the new logo will be temporary
A comparison of the Drake University and Des Moines Area Community College logos is included in court filings. A federal court ordered DMACC to stop using a block “D” logo similar to Drake’s existing logo.
The college has until Dec. 13 to get rid of the logo entirely, Denson said, but some items and spaces with the new logo will have to wait a little longer before they can be replaced, such as certain apparel and the basketball court. He said DMACC will file a report in court clarifying what has been done and the status of the logos that have not been removed.
DMACC unveiled its new logo and other branding in October 2023, with plans to update signs and other parts of the college’s seven campuses in the months following its website launch. The last attempt to change the name of the college took place almost 40 years ago.
Placing a new sign on the property and other remodeling efforts have been “substantially” completed, Denson said, although the college had a few things waiting before it could be completed. DMACC has previously said it will defend its name, saying “Drake University does not have a D.”
Find this story at Iowa Capital Dispatchwhich is part of States Newsroom, a network of grant-supported newsrooms and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) charitable organization. The Iowa Capital Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact editor Kathie Obradovich with questions: kobradovich@iowacapitaldispatch.com.
This article originally appeared in the Des Moines Register: DMACC appeals but removes Drake-like logos
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