Physical Entity Naming – Functional Naming Procedures

Parent Policy

Physical Entity Naming Policy

Functional naming of physical entities provides the University with the opportunity to recognize exceptional contributions, whether philanthropic or in the form of meritorious service, that honour Monash University's heritage and legacy. The naming of physical entities must be compatible with the vision, mission and values of the University.

Procedure

Any proposal to name a building, part of a building or any part of the University shall be made in a formal submission to the Vice-President (Advancement).

Form and Format of Names

1. The length of the proposed name of a physical entity will preferably be no more than six to eight words for ease in constructing signage and directional markers. If the proposed name exceeds six to eight words, the name should easily translate into an acronym.  
2. The size, design, and wording of plaques and other signs should be modest. Marketing and Facilities can assist with how names should be displayed on signage and directional markers.  
3. Proposed names may include corporation names but corporate logos must not be included.  
4. Proposed names should not include the use of parentheses or quotations.  
5. Preferably, no more than one physical entity on each campus will bear the same name. 

Approval

The Vice-President (Advancement) is responsible for assessing proposals for the naming of any physical entities in the University.  Proposals which are judged to have campus-wide implications may be brought forward to key stakeholder groups for confidential consultation.

Communication:

a)    The Vice-President (Advancement) will advise relevant academic/administrative units and consult with the Vice-President (Administration)    

b)    The Vice-Chancellor’s Group’s approval of any naming requests is required prior to public announcements or formal celebrations of honorific naming.   

c)    The Office of the Vice-President (Advancement) will liaise with necessary parties such as Facilities and Services and Marketing in relation to any naming, renaming or revokation of naming.  

d)    Facilities and Services will be responsible for managing all signage and identification requirements associated with approved naming, including regular maintenance.

Revocation of Naming

a)    Should a building be demolished or replaced, or where the occupancy or usage changes and the former name is no longer appropriate, then a request for a new name may be considered. Where possible, the Office of the Vice-President (Advancement) will contact the donor, or a family member and/or the appropriate contact person for the former namesake to inform them of the decision to demolish, replace or change usage of the facility.  It may be appropriate to place a plaque in, or on, a new building to indicate that it occupies the site of a building formerly known by another name.  It may also be appropriate to name part of the new building after the person, organisation, corporation or foundation for which the former building was named.  Requests of this nature should be directed to the Vice-President (Advancement). 
 

b)    The revocating of a naming must be approved by the Vice-President (Advancement) 
 

c)    When it is requested that a named physical entity within a building be relocated within the same building or to a different building and the new facility or room will serve the same original purpose, the Vice-President (Advancement) may approve a request that the naming follow the physical entity.

Responsibility

Vice-President (Administration)
Vice-President (Advancement)

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