Review the naming standards for units and programs, as related to the policy for Naming University Properties, Facilities, and Academic and Non-Academic Programs.
Names developed and chosen for university units, programs, and associated entities (e.g., centers and institutes) should adhere to the following conventions:
When developing a unit, program, or entity name, do not begin with an acronym or initialism and engineer a name to fit. This often results in strained and confusing names. It is also important to be cognizant of a desired name’s acronym to avoid unwittingly creating an embarrassing or inappropriate acronym (e.g., Administrative Support Services”).
Relatedly, do not use initialisms, acronyms, or abbreviations in official names. These shorthand conventions have the potential to cause confusion among users and make the name of the unit harder to understand and difficult to translate into other languages. They also tend to present comprehension challenges for those using assistive technology.
While initialisms, acronyms, or abbreviations (shorthands) are not to be used in the formal name of a unit or program, they may be used in the visual expression of an entity’s name (e.g., in an official unit lockup[1]). This approach may be helpful where brevity aids in the application of the name and does not compromise comprehension. Such instances are permissible as far as any two of the below conditions are met:
Examples of acceptable shorthand that would be allowed in an official name include:
Regional, local, or unit-specific initialisms, acronyms, or abbreviations (e.g., “WNY”) are not permitted, even if they are commonly accepted and used within the university community.
Note: Units and programs may only have one official lockup, and lockup expressions of the name should not become the norm, supplanting the formal reference.
Should an adjustment or exception to any facet of the university’s naming standards be desired, a request must be directed to University Communications (UC) for review and approval. With respect to research units, centers and programs, UC will work with the Vice President for Research and Economic Development to assess appeals. All requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and must be presented with a well-articulated and compelling business case.
Contact | Phone | |
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Donor Relations and Stewardship | 716-881-1708 | nms23@buffalo.edu |