Join a Rich Heritage of Trailblazers and Innovators
With a legacy of over 150 years, Alcorn State University recognized the need to evolve its brand to honor its rich heritage as the nation’s first public historically black land-grant institution while embracing a bold vision for the future. Through extensive research and engagement with students, faculty, alumni, and community leaders, we uncovered the essence of Alcorn’s identity and aspirations.
Drawing on these insights, we crafted a brand positioning strategy and a new creative campaign theme, "Always Alcorn," which captures the sense of belonging, innovation, and excellence that defines the Alcorn experience. Paired with a modernized logo featuring Alcorn’s iconic chapel, the campaign has deepened connections with key audiences and positioned Alcorn as a prestigious institution with a lasting legacy.
The success of this brand transformation was honored with two MARCOM Awards, including Platinum in Strategic Communications. Red Cactus is now partnering with Alcorn on a brand rollout strategy scheduled for January 2025, including new recruitment materials and an interactive digital viewbook, ensuring the "Always Alcorn" message continues to inspire.
What We Did
Market Research
Competitor Analysis
Brand Positioning
Brand Creative
Concepting Testing
Logo Refresh
Brand Guidelines
Brand Rollout Planning
Recruitment Brochure
Campus Banners
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Communicating An Enduring Legacy
Tradition and Excellence
A Thoughtful Blend of Past and Present
By refining and simplifying the chapel’s form, the new logo captures the essence of Alcorn’s legacy while projecting a forward-looking identity that resonates with today’s audiences. The clean lines and contemporary styling honor the chapel's significance as a beacon of tradition and excellence, while the refreshed design represents the university’s commitment to innovation and progress.