Eli Ahlquist, president and CEO of North West College, speaks during the unveiling of the institution’s new logo at the Chapel Gallery in North Battleford on Nov. 20. (battlefordsNOW)

By battlefordsNOW staff

NWC

‘A new day’: North West College unveils new logo to reflect changing identity

Nov 21, 2025 | 1:36 PM

North West College (NWC) unveiled a new logo on Nov. 20 at the Chapel Gallery in North Battleford, describing it as a symbol of growth, change and a renewed identity across northwestern Saskatchewan.

The design features a bold red shield, deep navy and gold accents, and a modern “NWC” crest built around a stylized “W” inspired by the college’s historic typography.

A design document said the shield represents protection and strength, while the colours tie to prairie fields, northern waterways and a “bold new future” for the institution.

The previous logo had been in place since 1975, when the college was first established. Although it saw small updates over the decades, its core look remained largely unchanged.

North Battleford deputy mayor Kent Lindgren poses for a picture with North West College president and CEO Eli Ahlquist Nov. 20 during the logo unveiling at the Chapel Gallery. (Photo/battlefordsNOW)

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Eli Ahlquist, the college’s president and CEO, said the idea for a rebrand emerged during a review of the college’s strategic plan.

“There was quite a bit of discussion about the image of the college and how it was perceived in the community.”

He said the old logo served the community for many years, but the college has evolved significantly.

“We felt it was time to look in a different direction to really reflect the changes that are coming.”

Ahlquist pointed to new programs, upgraded nursing simulation labs and strengthened enrollment as examples of how the college is shifting. He said the visual identity needed to reflect that momentum.

“We know it’s a subtle thing, but it’s an important piece … for students, for recruitment and community and student and staff pride.”

Design shaped by students, staff and community

The new logo took shape through several rounds of focus groups with domestic students, international students, Indigenous learners, staff and community stakeholders.

Ahlquist said their feedback strongly guided the final design.

“The rounded shield crest in the background and the letter W that harkens back to our old fonts as well were among the elements shaped by those sessions.”

The new logo for North West College. (photo/battlefordsNOW)

The previous logo. (photo/North West College)

A gradual rollout

The college plans to introduce the new branding in stages. Updated apparel and lanyards were provided to staff this week, but larger pieces — such as exterior building signage — will follow later.

“It’s not something that we can replace every single pen or notepad or logo on our vehicles. So it will take some time and we’re going to continue to work through that in different phases.”

He noted the transition will follow a cost-effective approach. Weather may delay some of the outdoor work, though signage updates remain a priority.

‘A new day’ for the college

Ahlquist said the refreshed identity is meant to encourage people to take another look at what North West College now offers.

“The message that we’re intending to produce is that it’s a new day at North West College.”

He said the hope is that the new look draws interest from learners across the region.

“To generate that excitement amongst prospective students, their family members, their communities to have a look at North West College and to see what we do offer and hopefully to enroll in the near future.”

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com