I. Purpose

This Brand & Logo Usage Policy establishes guidelines for the proper use of APPA's name, logo, and brand elements to:

• Protect and maintain the integrity of APPA's brand identity
• Ensure consistent representation of APPA across all communications
• Define appropriate use by Regions, Chapters, members, and third parties
• Establish clear approval processes for brand usage
• Protect APPA's intellectual property rights

This policy supports APPA's mission by ensuring that all uses of the APPA brand reflect the Association's values, maintain professional standards, and do not create confusion or misrepresentation.

II. Scope and Application

This policy applies to all uses of APPA's name, logo, and brand elements by:

• APPA Regions and Chapters
• Institutional Members and their representatives
• Business Partner Members and their representatives
• Individual Members (Student, Retired, Emeritus)
• APPA staff and contractors
• Third parties (with explicit permission only)

This policy governs use of APPA brand elements in all media, including but not limited to: print materials, digital communications, websites, social media, signage, promotional items, presentations, and advertising.

III. Approved Brand Elements

APPA's brand consists of the following core elements:

Official Name

• Full official name: APPA: Leadership in Educational Facilities
• Common usage: APPA
• Historical reference only (not for current use): Previously known as "Association of Physical Plant Administrators"

Logo

• APPA maintains official logo files in multiple formats and color variations
• Official logo files are available from APPA staff upon request
• Logos are provided in the following formats: vector (.eps, .ai, .svg), high-resolution raster (.png, .jpg)

Color Palette. Official APPA brand colors are specified in brand guidelines maintained by APPA staff. Consistent use of brand colors strengthens recognition and professional appearance.

Typography. Official typefaces and font usage are specified in brand guidelines maintained by APPA staff.

Taglines and Descriptors. Approved taglines and descriptive language are maintained in brand guidelines.

Brand Guidelines. Complete brand guidelines, including detailed specifications for logo usage, color codes, typography, and visual examples, are available from APPA staff. These guidelines are updated periodically and should be consulted for all significant brand applications.

Transition Periods for Brand Updates

When Brand Guidelines Are Updated. APPA recognizes that Regions and Chapters have varying resources and operational constraints. When APPA updates its brand guidelines, logos, or other brand elements, a flexible transition approach will be used.

Transition Timeline

• Digital Updates (when feasible): High-visibility digital assets (main website homepage, primary social media profiles) should be updated within a reasonable timeframe as resources allow
• Natural Replacement Cycle: Most materials should transition to updated brand elements through natural replacement cycles (when reprinting is needed, when materials are redesigned for other reasons, when inventory is depleted)

Practical Approach. Regions and Chapters should transition to updated brand elements: as part of normal update and refresh cycles; when redesigning materials for other purposes; when existing inventory is depleted; as budget and resources allow.

Existing Materials. Printed materials, signage, promotional items, and other physical assets bearing outdated brand elements may continue to be used until natural replacement is needed. APPA will not require destruction or premature replacement of functional materials.

Support During Transition. APPA will support Regions and Chapters during brand transitions by: providing updated brand assets and templates at no cost; offering design guidance and support when requested; working collaboratively on timeline expectations for high-value items; understanding budget and resource constraints.

Communication of Updates. When brand updates occur, APPA will clearly communicate: what elements are changing and why; recommended transition approach; where to obtain updated brand assets; available support and resources.

Major Brand Changes. In the rare event of a major brand overhaul requiring coordinated transition, APPA will: provide substantial advance notice (minimum 6 months); consult with Regional leadership before implementation; provide implementation support and resources; work individually with Regions/Chapters on practical timelines.

Historical and Archived Content

Exemption for Archived Content. Historical and archived content is exempt from current brand guidelines, provided the content is clearly identifiable as archival. This exemption applies to:

• Historical documents, reports, and publications preserved for record-keeping
• Archived newsletters, magazines, or periodicals
• Past conference materials and programs
• Historical website content preserved in archives
• Content captured by Internet Archive or similar services
• Historical photos and videos documenting past events

Requirements for Archived Content. To qualify for the historical exemption, content should: be clearly dated to indicate it is from a previous time period; not be actively promoted or distributed as current material; be maintained in an archive or historical section (when applicable); include context indicating it is historical (such as "Archived Newsletter — 2015").

Active vs. Archived. The distinction is whether content is actively used:

• Active content (must comply with current guidelines): live websites, current marketing materials, ongoing publications, social media posts, materials in active distribution
• Archived content (exempt): content maintained for historical record, not actively distributed or promoted

Updating Historical Content. Regions, Chapters, and members are not required to update or remove historical content to comply with brand changes. However, when republishing or repurposing historical content for current use, it should be updated to reflect current brand guidelines.

IV. APPA Name Usage

Proper Name References. The Association's official name is: APPA: Leadership in Educational Facilities. The name should be referenced as:

• Full official name: "APPA: Leadership in Educational Facilities"
• Common usage: "APPA"
• Acceptable descriptor: "APPA, leadership in educational facilities"
• Not acceptable: spelled-out versions of historical acronym (Association of Physical Plant Administrators), truncated variations, or other modifications

General Use

• The APPA name may be used to indicate membership or affiliation when usage is accurate and does not imply endorsement
• Use must not create confusion about the relationship between the user and APPA
• Use must not suggest official partnership or special status beyond actual relationship

Examples of Acceptable Name Usage

• "John Smith, representing ABC University, an APPA Institutional Member"
• "This event is sponsored by XYZ Company, an APPA Business Partner Member"
• "Jane Doe, APPA member since 2020"
• "APPA: Leadership in Educational Facilities"

Examples of Unacceptable Name Usage

• "Endorsed by APPA" (unless explicitly endorsed)
• "Official APPA partner" (unless formal partnership exists)
• "APPA-certified" (unless referring to actual APPA certification programs)

V. Logo Usage Guidelines

General Principles. When using the APPA logo:

• Always use official logo files obtained from APPA
• Maintain adequate clear space around the logo (minimum clear space equals the height of the "A" in APPA)
• Do not place the logo on busy backgrounds that reduce legibility
• Ensure sufficient contrast between logo and background
• Use approved color variations appropriate to the application

Approved Logo Variations. The APPA logo is available in the following approved variations:

• Full color (primary version for use on white or light backgrounds)
• Reversed/white version (for use on dark backgrounds)
• Black version (for single-color printing)
• Grayscale version (when color printing is not available)

Contact marketing@appa.org to obtain official logo files in appropriate formats.

Minimum Size Requirements. To maintain legibility:

• Digital/screen use: minimum width of 150 pixels
• Print use: minimum width of 1 inch

Logos smaller than these minimums may lose clarity and should not be used.

Placement and Hierarchy. When the APPA logo appears with other logos:

• APPA logo should be comparable in size to partner logos
• For Region/Chapter materials, the Region/Chapter identifier should appear in close proximity to the APPA logo to show the relationship
• APPA logo should not appear subordinate to other organizational logos unless required by sponsorship agreements

Region and Chapter Logo Treatment

Separate Identity Requirement. The APPA logo must remain a standalone element and cannot be incorporated into, merged with, or redesigned as part of a Region or Chapter logo by the Region or Chapter.

Any incorporation or merging of the APPA logo with regional/chapter identifiers will be designed and executed by APPA. Regions and Chapters seeking combined logo treatments must submit a request to marketing@appa.org.

Prohibited by Regions/Chapters

• Creating a combined logo that merges APPA logo with regional/chapter graphics
• Enclosing the APPA logo within regional/chapter design elements (circles, shields, borders, etc.)
• Integrating the APPA logo as a component of a larger regional/chapter logo system
• Redesigning or stylizing the APPA logo to match regional/chapter visual identity

Acceptable Approaches for Regions/Chapters

• Placing the APPA logo adjacent to regional/chapter name or identifier
• Using the APPA logo alongside a separate regional/chapter mark
• Including both the standalone APPA logo and a separate regional/chapter logo on materials
• Lockup format: APPA logo followed by text such as "Eastern Region" or "Keystone Chapter" (text only, not incorporated into logo graphic)

Example Lockup: [APPA Logo] Eastern Region of APPA (ERAPPA) — the APPA logo remains unmodified, with the regional name appearing as separate text adjacent to or below the logo.

Custom Combined Logos. Regions and Chapters desiring a professionally designed combined logo treatment must submit a request to APPA. APPA will create the combined logo to ensure brand consistency and provide it to the Region or Chapter for approved uses.

Regional/Chapter-Specific Branding. Regions and Chapters may develop their own distinct visual identities, including colors, graphics, and design elements, provided these remain separate from and do not modify the APPA logo itself.

Digital Use Specifications: websites — use high-resolution PNG or SVG format; social media — use files sized appropriately for each platform; email signatures — keep file size under 50KB for email performance; presentations — use vector formats (EPS, AI, SVG) when possible for scalability.

Print Use Specifications: use vector formats (EPS, AI) for professional printing; minimum resolution of 300 dpi for raster images (JPG, PNG); ensure logo reproduces clearly in both color and black-and-white printing.

VI. Usage by Audience

A. Regions and Chapters

General Authority. APPA Regions and Chapters have broad authority to use APPA Marks in materials, communications, and activities that advance APPA's mission within their geographic areas, subject to the requirements of this policy and the Regions and Chapters Affiliation Agreement.

Naming Conventions. Official name format: "[Region/Chapter Name] of APPA" or "APPA [Region/Chapter Name]" — e.g., "Eastern Region of APPA (ERAPPA)," "APPA Keystone Chapter." Regional/Chapter acronyms may be used once the full name is established.

Permitted Uses: websites, social media, and digital communications; newsletters, publications, and reports; event materials (programs, signage, name badges); membership recruitment materials; professional development offerings; correspondence and official communications; promotional items for members and events.

Co-Branding with Local Partners. Regions and Chapters may co-brand materials with local educational institutions, venues, or sponsors, provided: APPA logo maintains appropriate prominence; co-branding does not imply APPA endorsement of commercial products/services; materials receive Tier 2 approval from marketing@appa.org.

Required Elements. Region/Chapter materials should include: APPA logo or name; clear identification of the specific Region or Chapter; contact information or website for the Region/Chapter.

B. Institutional Members

Permitted Uses. Institutional Members may use APPA Marks to: indicate institutional membership status; promote APPA programs and events to internal audiences; recognize staff participation in APPA activities; include in facility department communications and reports.

Examples of Acceptable Use: "ABC University is an APPA Institutional Member" · "Our facilities team participates in APPA professional development programs" · staff directory: "Jane Smith, Institutional Representative to APPA" · department website: APPA logo in "Professional Affiliations" section.

Restrictions: may not imply APPA endorsement of institutional practices, policies, or services; may not use APPA Marks as part of institutional logo or official identity; may not suggest exclusive relationship or special status beyond membership.

C. Business Partner Members

Permitted Uses. Business Partner Members may use APPA Marks to: indicate Business Partner membership status; list APPA membership among professional affiliations; identify representatives' participation in APPA committees or leadership.

Examples of Acceptable Use: company website: "XYZ Company is an APPA Business Partner Member" · trade show booth: "Proud APPA Business Partner" with logo · email signature: "APPA Business Partner Member since 2020" · marketing materials: APPA logo in "Associations & Memberships" section.

Restrictions: may not imply APPA endorsement of products, services, or company practices; may not suggest exclusive partnership or preferred vendor status; may not use APPA Marks in product names, service names, or company branding; may not use membership status to gain competitive advantage through misrepresentation; must clearly indicate that membership does not constitute endorsement.

Commercial Use Limitations. Business Partner Members may reference membership in marketing materials, but such use must: be factual and not misleading; not suggest APPA approval or recommendation of specific products/services; include disclaimer language when appropriate ("APPA Business Partner membership does not constitute endorsement"); receive Tier 2 approval for promotional items or materials distributed beyond the member organization.

Sponsorship Recognition. Business Partner Members who sponsor APPA events, programs, or initiatives may acknowledge their sponsorship role, provided such acknowledgment is: factually accurate; limited to the specific event, program, or initiative sponsored; time-bound to the duration of the sponsorship.

Acceptable Sponsorship References: "Proud sponsor of the 2026 APPA Annual Conference" · "Supporting APPA's [specific program name]" · "Official [level] Sponsor" (when using sponsorship levels established by APPA).

Unacceptable Sponsorship References: "Official APPA Sponsor" (without specifying what is being sponsored) · continued use of sponsorship references after sponsorship has ended · implying ongoing exclusive partnership based on single-event sponsorship.

Use of APPA Marks in Program Names. Business Partner Members may not incorporate APPA Marks into their own program, product, or service names without explicit written permission. This prohibition includes: "[Company] APPA Member Benefits Program" · "[Product Name] for APPA" · "APPA-Certified [Service]" · "[Company] APPA Training Series."

Exception: Business Partners may reference APPA when describing programs offered TO APPA members, provided the description clearly indicates the program is offered BY the Business Partner, not BY APPA — acceptable: "Special pricing for APPA members on [Company Product]"; "[Company] offers exclusive benefits to APPA Business Partner Members"; not acceptable: "[Company] APPA Member Program."

D. Individual Members (Student, Retired, Emeritus)

Permitted Uses. Individual members may use APPA Marks to: indicate personal membership status; include in professional profiles and résumés; reference in biographical information for publications or presentations.

Examples of Acceptable Use: LinkedIn profile: "APPA Member" · conference biography: "APPA Emeritus Member" · email signature: "APPA Student Member" · professional materials: "Active member, APPA: Leadership in Educational Facilities."

Restrictions: may not use APPA logo in personal branding or business logos; may not imply authority to represent APPA; may not suggest APPA endorsement of personal services or viewpoints.

Personal Identification of Official Roles — Board Members, Officers, and Committee Chairs. Individuals serving in APPA leadership positions (Board members, officers, committee chairs, Regional/Chapter officers) may identify their official role in personal and professional contexts, including: LinkedIn and other professional networking profiles; conference biographies and speaker introductions; professional résumés and CVs; email signatures; personal social media bios.

Acceptable Personal Role Identification: "APPA Board Chair" or "Chair, APPA Board of Directors" · "APPA Regional Director — Eastern Region" · "Chair, APPA Finance Committee" · "President, ERAPPA (Eastern Region of APPA)" · include term dates when known: "APPA Board Chair (2024-2026)."

Required Disclaimer for Personal Opinions. When expressing personal opinions on social media, in blog posts, or in other public forums, individuals holding official APPA positions should include a disclaimer when discussing topics related to APPA's mission or the facilities management profession: "Opinions are my own and do not represent APPA" or "Personal views, not speaking on behalf of APPA." This disclaimer is particularly important for Board members and senior leaders to distinguish personal commentary from official APPA positions.

Prohibited Personal Uses: suggesting authority to make commitments or decisions on behalf of APPA in personal capacity; using APPA title to endorse personal business ventures, products, or services; leveraging APPA position for commercial advantage unrelated to APPA activities; implying that personal opinions reflect official APPA policy or positions.

After Service Ends. Former officers and Board members may reference past service in their professional history — "Former APPA Board Chair (2024-2026)," "Past President, CAPPA." Do not use present tense after service has ended; do not use outdated role to imply current authority.

E. Third Parties

General Prohibition. Third parties (non-members, vendors, consultants, media) may not use APPA Marks without explicit written permission from APPA.

Permitted Exceptions:

• Media/Press: may reference APPA in factual reporting, interviews, or articles
• Academic/Research: may reference APPA in scholarly work with appropriate citation
• Event Partners: may use APPA Marks in co-sponsored events with written agreement
• Service Providers: may reference APPA as a client with permission (e.g., website developers, printers)

Request Process. Third parties seeking permission must submit a request to marketing@appa.org including: purpose and context of use; specific materials where APPA Marks will appear; duration of use; distribution or audience reach.

VII. Approval Process

Tiered Approval Framework

Self-Service Resources

Logo and Brand Asset Library. APPA maintains a brand asset library available to authorized users. The library includes official logos in multiple formats and color variations, the brand guidelines document, color specifications (RGB, CMYK, HEX), and typography specifications. Access is provided to Region/Chapter officers, member organization marketing contacts, and APPA committee chairs — available by request to marketing@appa.org.

Pre-Approved Templates. To streamline consistent use and reduce approval requests, APPA provides pre-approved templates for: PowerPoint presentations (standard APPA theme); letterhead and correspondence templates; email newsletter headers; social media graphics (event announcements, quotes, statistics); event signage templates. Regions, Chapters, and committees may use these templates without additional approval, provided content aligns with APPA's mission and values.

Brand Guidelines Document. Complete brand guidelines include logo usage rules and clear space requirements, acceptable color variations and backgrounds, typography and font pairing, examples of correct and incorrect usage, and guidance for digital and print applications. Brand guidelines are updated periodically; users should reference the most current version available from the brand asset library.

Domain Name and Social Media Naming Conventions

To maintain brand consistency, prevent fragmentation, and ensure APPA entities are easily identifiable, the following naming conventions shall be used:

Domain Names. Regions and Chapters must use the following format for websites — Regions: [region].appa.org (e.g., erappa.appa.org, cappa.appa.org); Chapters: [chapter].appa.org (e.g., kappa.appa.org, ilappa.appa.org). Regions and Chapters must coordinate with APPA staff before registering new domains.

Social Media Handles. Social media accounts representing APPA Regions, Chapters, or organizational units must use recognizable naming patterns: preferred format @APPA[Region] or @[Region]APPA (e.g., @APPAERAPPA, @ERAPPAAPPA); for Chapters, @APPA[Location] or @[Location]APPA; must clearly identify the specific Region, Chapter, or unit; must not present as the main APPA account.

Registration and Coordination. Regions and Chapters must notify APPA staff (marketing@appa.org) when establishing new social media accounts or registering domains. APPA staff maintains a registry of official Region/Chapter digital properties. This coordination prevents duplicate accounts and ensures brand consistency.

Unauthorized Use. Domains or social media accounts not following these conventions or not registered with APPA may be subject to takedown requests. APPA reserves the right to reclaim domains or social media handles that violate this policy.

Technical Control and Reclamation Rights

Subdomain Control. All .appa.org subdomains are technically owned and controlled by APPA. APPA grants administrative access to Regions and Chapters for their designated subdomains and retains the right to revoke administrative access at any time.

Reclamation Upon Dissolution or Loss of Good Standing. Upon dissolution, loss of recognition, or loss of good standing, APPA has the immediate right to: revoke administrative access to .appa.org subdomains; redirect domains to APPA's main website or an appropriate successor organization; assume control of social media accounts bearing APPA Marks; remove or archive content as appropriate.

Cooperation Requirement. Regions and Chapters must: provide APPA with administrative credentials for all domains and social media accounts upon request; cooperate with transfer or dissolution processes; not delete or destroy content without APPA approval; include at least one APPA staff member as an administrator/owner on all social media accounts.

Dormant or Non-Responsive Entities. If a Region or Chapter becomes non-responsive, APPA may take immediate action to protect digital properties without requiring cooperation from the dormant entity. APPA will make reasonable attempts to contact leadership before taking action.

Annual Attestation and Ongoing Use

Trust-But-Verify Approach. To reduce administrative burden while maintaining brand integrity, APPA employs an annual attestation model for ongoing brand uses by Regions and Chapters.

Annual Attestation Requirement. Regions and Chapters shall submit an annual attestation confirming: all uses of APPA name, logo, and brand elements comply with this policy; brand assets are current and obtained from official sources; websites, social media accounts, and recurring materials align with brand guidelines; officers and key volunteers understand brand usage requirements. Attestation shall be submitted annually as part of the Regions and Chapters Affiliation Agreement renewal process or by a date specified by APPA staff.

Ongoing Uses Not Requiring Repeated Approval. Once approved or falling under Tier 1, the following ongoing uses do not require additional approvals: websites that have received initial approval; recurring newsletters or publications using approved templates; social media accounts registered with APPA; standard event materials and signage; routine communications consistent with brand guidelines.

When New Approval Is Required: making substantial changes to previously approved materials (major website redesigns, new publication formats); creating new co-branded partnerships; launching new initiatives that significantly expand brand usage; uses that fall under Tier 2 or Tier 3 approval requirements.

Verification Process. APPA staff may periodically review Region/Chapter brand usage to ensure compliance. Non-compliance will be addressed through education and correction rather than punitive measures, except in cases of intentional misuse or repeated violations.

Definition of Substantial Changes. For purposes of determining when new approval is required, substantial changes include:

• Content Changes: modification of core messaging, themes, or purpose; addition of new co-branding partners or sponsor logos; changes to target audience or distribution channels; addition of commercial elements to previously non-commercial materials
• Design Changes: major redesign of layout, visual hierarchy, or design elements; changes to logo placement, size, or prominence; modification of color scheme or typography beyond brand guidelines; addition of new visual elements that alter overall appearance
• Scope Changes: expansion from local/regional to national/international distribution; change from digital to print (or vice versa) requiring different specifications; increase in quantity produced (e.g., from 100 to 10,000 units); extension beyond original timeframe or campaign period

Non-Substantial Changes. The following changes generally do not require new approval: correcting typographical errors or broken links; updating contact information or dates for recurring events; minor adjustments to maintain consistency with updated brand guidelines (when brand guidelines are refreshed); translations into other languages (provided content remains unchanged); reformatting for different screen sizes or responsive design.

When in Doubt. If uncertain whether a change is substantial, contact marketing@appa.org for clarification. It is better to request confirmation than to proceed with changes that may require re-approval.

VIII. Intellectual Property Ownership and License

APPA's Ownership. APPA owns all rights, title, and interest in and to the APPA name, logo, taglines, brand elements, programs, and related trademarks and service marks (collectively, "APPA Marks"). This includes:

• The name "APPA: Leadership in Educational Facilities" and all variations
• All APPA logos, symbols, and visual identities
• APPA taglines and descriptive language
• APPA program names, certification programs, and educational offerings
• Domain names incorporating APPA
• Social media handles incorporating APPA

APPA Marks are protected under applicable trademark and intellectual property laws.

License to Use. All use of APPA Marks by Regions, Chapters, members, and third parties constitutes a revocable, non-exclusive, non-transferable license granted by APPA. This license:

• Does not transfer ownership of APPA Marks to the user
• May be revoked at any time by APPA for violation of this policy or other good cause
• Terminates automatically upon termination of membership, affiliation, or authorization
• Cannot be sublicensed, assigned, or transferred to others without APPA's express written permission

Goodwill and Benefits. All goodwill and benefits arising from use of APPA Marks inure to the benefit of APPA. Users acknowledge that their use of APPA Marks does not create any ownership rights or equity interest in APPA's intellectual property.

Protection of Rights. Users must: not challenge APPA's ownership of APPA Marks; not register or attempt to register any marks confusingly similar to APPA Marks; notify APPA of any unauthorized use or infringement of APPA Marks that comes to their attention; cooperate with APPA in protecting and enforcing APPA's intellectual property rights.

Termination of License. Upon termination of the license (whether by revocation, membership/affiliation termination, or expiration), users must: immediately cease all use of APPA Marks; remove APPA Marks from all materials, websites, and social media; discontinue any domain names or handles incorporating APPA Marks (or transfer control to APPA); return or destroy all materials bearing APPA Marks.

IX. Prohibited Uses

The following uses of APPA Marks are strictly prohibited:

Logo Alterations

• Do not alter, modify, distort, or reconfigure the APPA logo in any way
• Do not change logo colors outside of approved color variations
• Do not add elements to or remove elements from the logo
• Do not rotate, skew, or apply effects to the logo
• Do not recreate or redraw the logo
• Do not use outdated or unofficial versions of the logo

Misleading Representations

• Do not imply APPA endorsement of products, services, programs, or viewpoints without explicit authorization
• Do not suggest official APPA partnership, sponsorship, or affiliation beyond actual relationship
• Do not represent yourself as speaking on behalf of APPA without authorization
• Do not claim APPA certification or credentials that have not been earned through official APPA programs
• Do not use "APPA-approved," "APPA-certified," or similar language unless explicitly authorized

Commercial Misuse

• Do not use APPA Marks as part of your organization's name or logo without authorization
• Do not use APPA Marks to promote commercial products or services except as permitted for Business Partner Members indicating membership status
• Do not use APPA Marks in a manner that suggests APPA's exclusive association with your products or services
• Do not incorporate APPA Marks into your own trademarks or service marks
• Do not register domain names incorporating APPA Marks except as permitted in this policy

Disparagement and Misrepresentation

• Do not use APPA Marks in any manner that disparages APPA, its members, or the facilities management profession
• Do not use APPA Marks in connection with illegal, offensive, or inappropriate content
• Do not use APPA Marks in any manner that could damage APPA's reputation
• Do not misrepresent APPA's positions, policies, or statements

Unauthorized Transfers

• Do not sell, license, or transfer rights to use APPA Marks to others
• Do not allow third parties to use APPA Marks under your membership or affiliation
• Do not sublicense any rights granted to you

X. Enforcement

Reporting and Addressing Violations

Community Responsibility. APPA members, staff, and stakeholders are encouraged to help protect the integrity of APPA's brand by reporting suspected violations of this policy. Reporting misuse helps ensure consistent brand representation and protects APPA's reputation.

How to Report Violations. Suspected violations should be reported to marketing@appa.org with: description of the suspected violation; where the violation was observed (website URL, social media handle, publication, etc.); name of individual or organization (if known); date observed; supporting documentation (screenshots, photos, copies of materials). All reports will be reviewed by APPA staff. Reporters may remain anonymous if preferred.

Response to Violations. APPA's response will be proportionate and focused on education and correction:

First Instance / Unintentional Violations: APPA staff will contact the user to explain the violation; user will be provided with correct brand guidelines and resources; reasonable timeframe (typically 30 days) provided to correct the violation; no punitive action for good-faith compliance.

Repeated or Serious Violations: formal written notice of violation sent to user; required correction within specified timeframe (typically 14 days); may result in suspension of brand usage privileges pending correction; may result in revocation of license to use APPA Marks.

Intentional Misuse or Refusal to Comply: immediate revocation of license to use APPA Marks; may result in termination of membership or affiliation (for Regions/Chapters); APPA reserves the right to pursue legal remedies to protect its intellectual property.

Decision-Making Authority

Initial Violation Determinations. APPA staff shall make initial determinations regarding the nature and severity of violations, classifying them as first instance/unintentional, repeated/serious, or intentional misuse based on: whether the user had prior knowledge of brand guidelines; whether similar violations have occurred previously; the scope and impact of the violation; the user's response when contacted about the issue.

Escalation. Violations that may result in suspension or revocation of brand usage privileges shall be reviewed by the CEO or designee before action is taken. Violations involving potential termination of membership or Regional/Chapter affiliation shall be referred to the CEO and Board of Directors.

Appeals Process. Users who disagree with a violation determination may submit a written appeal to the CEO within 14 days. If the CEO made the initial determination, the appeal shall be reviewed by the Executive Committee. The reviewing authority will make a final determination, consulting with the Board of Directors when appropriate. Appeal decisions are final.

Enforcement Through Affiliation Agreement

Connection to Regions and Chapters Affiliation Agreement. APPA Regions and Chapters operate under the Regions and Chapters Affiliation Agreement, which includes commitments to: use the Association's name, logo, and brand in accordance with policies established by the Association (Section 1, Item 7); abide by Association policies when conducting business or activities on behalf of or representing the Association (Section 1, Item 9); maintain responsibility for all content and liability of any project, program, or other undertaking when using the Association's name, logo, or brand (Section 1, Item 7).

Brand Violations and Affiliation Status. Serious or repeated violations of this policy by Regions or Chapters may constitute grounds for: suspension of brand usage privileges pending correction; enhanced monitoring and reporting requirements; withdrawal of recognition as an affiliated Region or Chapter. Such actions would be taken in accordance with the procedures specified in the Regions and Chapters Affiliation Agreement and applicable bylaws.

Good Standing Requirements. Compliance with this Brand & Logo Usage Policy is a component of maintaining good standing as an APPA Region or Chapter. The Board of Directors may withdraw recognition of any Region or Chapter that fails to maintain good standing or acts contrary to the interests of the Association, as specified in Article VI, Section 7 of the APPA Bylaws.

Corrective vs. Punitive Approach. APPA's approach prioritizes education and correction over punishment. The goal is to help Regions, Chapters, and members use the brand correctly, not to create barriers to affiliation. Affiliation consequences are reserved for intentional misuse, repeated violations after correction opportunities, or brand uses that significantly harm APPA's reputation or interests.

XI. Policy Administration

Authority. The President and CEO has full authority to interpret and administer this Brand & Logo Usage Policy. The CEO may delegate administrative responsibilities to appropriate staff members.

Amendments.

• Minor and Administrative Changes: The CEO or delegated staff may make minor or administrative changes to this policy (such as updating contact information, clarifying language, or adjusting operational procedures) without Board approval.
• Substantive Changes: Substantive changes to brand ownership, approval processes, enforcement procedures, or rights and restrictions require approval by the APPA Board of Directors.

All amendments shall be communicated to Regions, Chapters, and members in a timely manner.

Policy Review. This policy shall be reviewed as needed, with a comprehensive review conducted at least every three years to ensure alignment with: APPA's strategic priorities and brand evolution; current best practices in brand management; legal and regulatory requirements; feedback from Regions, Chapters, and members.

Effective Date. This Brand & Logo Usage Policy was adopted by the APPA Board of Directors on May 29, 2026 and supersedes all previous brand usage policies and guidelines.

Questions and Support. Questions regarding this policy or requests for brand assets should be directed to marketing@appa.org · (703) 684-1446.