There is a rich history of traditions, accomplishments and experiences that enhance people’s understanding of, and sense of connection to, The Ohio State University. Many of these aspects are represented in our physical environment in different ways. Campus is ever changing, and the university is offered numerous opportunities to mark and catalog significant aspects through landscape, signage, art, memorials, objects, environmental graphics and digital storytelling. While there are several university committees and groups engaged in the review and approval of various elements of the physical environment, this committee is focused specifically on non-standard signage, objects and memorials.
The Non-Standard Signage, Objects and Memorials Committee (NSOM) has the authority to review, advise on and approve non-standard signage, environmental objects and memorials to enhance Ohio State’s environmental experiences—inclusive of the medical center and regional campuses.
The committee works with the requester. The NSOM Committee will coordinate with applicable stakeholder groups and committees to determine appropriateness and recommendations. The committee will share recommendations with Vice President of Planning, Architecture and Real Estate and/or the Senior Vice President of Administration and Planning who will approve in consultation with President’s Cabinet members as appropriate.
The NSOM Committee does not replace the standard signage request process.
All requests for non-standard signage, objects or memorials must be submitted by completing the NSOM request form.
Definitions
Definitions
The committee is authorized to review and approve proposals for non-standard signage, environmental objects and memorials across the enterprise, inclusive of the medical center, regional campuses and other remote university locations. These items may take various forms such as non-standard signage, exterior-facing graphics, statues, obelisks, monuments, plaques, walls, spaces, programs such as Class Bench, etc.
“Non-standard signage” is defined as any non-standard signage or exterior-facing graphics that are part of physical environments or surrounding areas that enhance a sense of place on Ohio State campuses.
“Environmental object” is defined as an object that is part of a physical environment or surrounding area that enhance a sense of place on Ohio State campuses.
“Memorial” is defined as non-standard signage, space or object intended to celebrate or recognize/acknowledge a distinguished person (living or deceased) or group of individuals (e.g., a family, team, class, etc.) for outstanding service or commitment to the university; or recognize a significant historical aspect that has shaped the university. A memorial is a permanent exterior or interior installation.
Committee Responsibilities
- Establishing and maintaining a clear intake and review process.
- Coordinating integration with related committee processes.
- Ensuring proposals align with various university policies, guidelines and planning efforts.
- Assessing and providing guidance for proposals and requests.
- Engaging key stakeholders for input and visibility at appropriate stages of the assessment, development and approval processes.
- Identifying opportunities for future standardization through related committee focus areas (e.g., Standard Signage Committee).
Committee Members
The committee is composed of the following functional areas.
Members include:
Co-chairs
University Landscape Architect
Planning, Architecture and Real Estate (PARE)
Head of Brand Stewardship
Office of Marketing and Communications (OMC)
Members
University Landscape Architect
Planning, Architecture and Real Estate (PARE)
Head of Brand Stewardship
Office of Marketing and Communications (OMC)
University Architect
Planning, Architecture and Real Estate (PARE)
Director, Donor Experience
Advancement
University Engineer
Facilities Operations and Development
Director or Associate Director, Public Affairs
Office of Marketing and Communications
Campus Arts Collection Manager
Office of Academic Affairs