Two students talk in the Grill in the JRC

Personality and Voice

Our personality traits shape the tone and voice of our brand, driving the image for all of our communications. These characteristics articulate how our brand comes to life in how we communicate, beyond just the messages and visuals.

To ensure that what we say sounds authentically Grinnellian, we’ve identified an additional series of traits that align with the brand personality and set the tone for the Grinnell voice.

The Grinnell brand personality is ...

Inquisitive

intellectually curious and motivated by critical thought

Influential

confident and articulate, with an informed voice

Accepting

welcoming and inclusive, open to all

Genuine

authentic and honest, yet respectful

Resolute

purposeful and tenacious, driven to make an impact

Dynamic

always striving to find creative and alternative solutions

So the Grinnell voice will sound ...

  • Vibrant and energetic
  • Unconventional and cool
  • Joyful and spirited
  • Smart and intellectual

The Grinnell Ethos

Living as a Grinnellian is to live responsibly.
We question the easy answers. We challenge conventions.
We critique every institution — even our own.

As Grinnellians, we move through society, led by a burning curiosity and a desire to improve what’s around us. Because once you see the world as a Grinnellian, nothing is ever one-sided again. And nothing is ever ordinary.

On this path, we find forward motion and multiplicity. We’re inspired by our own intuition. Sustained by our ingenuity. And we’re driven to do what’s right for the world, and to do right by the world.

So there’s always more to learn, more to try, more to accomplish. That’s what Grinnellians do.

We build community everywhere we go. We embolden the underestimated. We speak up in front of the powerful. We seek to become part of the solution. Shining light on injustices and designing more equitable solutions. Rejecting complacency and inviting all voices to the table. And inspiring others to do the same.

Just like extraordinary journeys, exceptional people seldom begin in obvious places. And the ones who create a more just world, go forth from Grinnell.

Extraordinary begins at Grinnell College.

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