Topper and Hilltoppers Logo Design

Role: Graphic Designer

Created a cohesive logo set and style guide for West Liberty University Athletics, giving Topper the Bear and the Hilltoppers a bold, unified identity.

Responsibilities:

  • Designed mascot and team logos that captured Topper’s traits: competitive, confident, and proud

  • Produced a style guide to ensure consistent use across athletics materials

  • Delivered an identity package that strengthened school spirit and community engagement

Black and white photo from 1990s of a woman and her child interacting with Topper the Bear
Black and white photo from 1990s of a woman and her child interacting with Topper the Bear

Topper the Bear interacting with fans in 1998

History of Topper the Bear

Since the 1990s, West Liberty University Athletics had a well-loved costumed mascot, Topper the Bear, who was a fixture at games and events. But while Topper brought spirit and energy, there was no consistent visual identity for the mascot or the Hilltoppers teams. The athletics brand itself also needed to be distinguished from, while still supporting,the university’s broader brand.

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