Ask Permission to Use MSU Trademarks

Michigan State University allows you to have your favorite mascot on top of your cake.  So long as you ask permission first.

MSU is protective of Sparty's image.  And of the Spartan helmet silhouette.  And of its signature block S. And of the phrase "Go Green, Go White."  And any of its other 30 trademarks registered with federal and state agencies.

Between March and September, MSU's licensing office sent 10 cease and desist letters to individuals and businesses, according to records obtained via a Freedom of Information Act request.

And that number pales in comparison to the number of takedown requests for material that infringed on MSU's trademarks on Facebook alone last year; 1334.

Samantha Stevens, director of MSU's licensing office said, "It's very important to ensure the consumer is not confused about endorsements or different things the university might not be supporting or partnering with."  Here's more from the Lansing State Journal.