The academic seal is the most formal emblem of the university. It is to be used in the university's most official communications, such as diplomas, transcripts, certificates, commencement programs, presidential communications and international correspondence.
The formal seal was redesigned in 2021 to better reflect the nature of the university brand. Its rising sun and fields represent the growth of the university and the fertile lands of our southern San Joaquin Valley. 1970 is marked on the seal as the year when classes were first held at the institution.