Morehouse & Spelman Trademark ‘SpelHouse’

In a significant move to protect their rich traditions and shared legacy, two prominent Atlanta-based HBCUs, Morehouse College and Spelman College, have jointly secured the trademark for “SpelHouse.” This strategic decision comes just in time for their combined homecoming festivities, which run from October 12th to 19th.

Celebrating Community and Protecting Legacy

The “SpelHouse” community signifies more than just geographical proximity; it represents a deep connection built on shared history, traditions, and a powerful legacy between these two renowned historically Black colleges and universities. By trademarking the term, both institutions are asserting ownership over their names, images, and likenesses.

This protection is crucial for preventing dilution and misuse of their brands by external entities, ensuring that the “SpelHouse” identity remains authentic and controlled by the colleges themselves. It’s a business decision that underscores the value and significance of their combined heritage.

Capsule Collection and Design Competition

To celebrate this milestone, Morehouse and Spelman are launching a limited-edition capsule collection in collaboration with Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) and ProStandard. This collection will allow students, alumni, and fans to proudly display their “SpelHouse” pride.

Looking further ahead, the institutions are also hosting a design competition to create the official “SpelHouse” logo artwork. This initiative invites students, alumni, and employees to contribute to defining the visual identity of “SpelHouse,” encouraging them to consider its rich history while envisioning its future.

Building on Financial Support

This trademark announcement follows another significant development for both colleges. As previously reported by AFROTECH™, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has committed $50 million to support gap scholarships for HBCUs in Atlanta, including Morehouse and Spelman. This investment aims to ensure that students can access world-class education without financial hardship hindering their academic journey and graduation.

Interim President Rosalind “Roz” Brewer of Spelman College and President Dr. F. DuBois Bowman of Morehouse College both expressed gratitude for the foundation’s support, highlighting its role in empowering students to focus on their studies and allowing talent and ambition, rather than financial struggles, to shape their futures.