A tartan that's forever Fired Up

Today, Central Michigan University joins dozens of U.S.-based colleges and universities to register a distinctive pattern with The Scottish Register of Tartans. The new pattern made its debut today at the investiture ceremony for the university’s 16th president, Neil MacKinnon.

Registered in February 2025 as “the Central Michigan University tartan,” the pattern features the university’s official school colors, maroon and gold, and was developed with input from students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends. More than 1,800 people voted to choose the pattern via an online poll in January 2025.

“The tartan pattern is a fun new way to show our Fired-Up school pride,” said CMU President Neil MacKinnon. 

The tartan was featured on pop-up banners, event programs and centerpieces at the president’s investiture ceremony and reception.

Using the tartan

The word tartan refers to a specific pattern of interlocking stripes, running both vertically and horizontally, in two or more alternating colors. While it was historically used to describe patterns used by individuals and groups of Scottish descent, tartan patterns are now used widely by numerous organizations — many with no ties to Scotland. 

The Central Michigan University tartan will be used in several ways, including on print pieces and event design, by the Office of the President and will be featured on select items in the CMU Bookstore later this year. University Communications will add the pattern to its visual brand standards webpage and provide guidance for how it may be used by campus partners as a graphic element on digital and print items.