Summary
Use the full name Winona State University on first reference in stories, major sections, covers, and addresses. Afterward, abbreviations such as Winona State, WSU, and the university (lowercase “university” when informal) are acceptable.
For the Rochester campus, write Winona State University-Rochester on first mention, then WSU-Rochester, using a hyphen without spaces.
When referring to the system, use Minnesota State instead of “Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.” Preferred phrasing
Body
Summary
The first reference in publications, documents, or multimedia should use the "Winona State University". Abbreviations are acceptable for additional references in the content piece.
Standards for Use
The name "Winona State University" is a critical element of our institutional branding and must be referenced appropriately to protect our brand recognition and reputation.
Winona State University
Always use the full name "Winona State University" on first reference in stories, major sections, front covers, title pages, and addresses.
After the first mention, acceptable abbreviations include "Winona State", "WSU", and "the university" (lowercase “university” when used informally).
Winona State University-Rochester
Use the full name first: "Winona State University-Rochester", with a hyphen and no spaces between “University” and “Rochester.”
Further references should be "WSU-Rochester".
Minnesota State System
When referring to the system, use the branded name Minnesota State instead of “Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.” The preferred phrasing is “the colleges and universities of Minnesota State.”
Avoid possessive forms like “Minnesota State’s.”
Learn More
If you have additional questions, please contact Andrea Northam, Senior Director of Marketing, Communications and Media Relations, at anortham@winona.edu.