Typography

Visual hierarchy is imperative to ensure messaging and content is easily read and understood. The fonts, weights, and colors of the Web Theme are in place to define hierarchy and enable the highest level of readability.

The following fonts are used by the Web Theme. For additional reference information, visit the Colors & Typography page in the Documentation section.

Guidelines

• The default fonts, sizes, colors, and line heights used for standard elements in the Web Theme should not be altered.
• Heading fonts may be used only for headlines and titles, not for body copy.
• Headings must be white or brand blue, depending on background. Body copy must be dark gray. Alternative colors for text (with the exception of links) are not permitted.
• The color contrast of all text must meet WCAG 2.0 level AA. This is a contrast level of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, where large text is defined as 24px and larger, or 18.66px and larger when text is bold. (Contrast Checker tool)

Galaxie Polaris Condensed Bold

Galaxie Polaris Condensed Bold serves as top-level headings with its heavy, dominating stature perfect for defining site and page titles and main messaging titles, as well as section and content headings. 

Usage: Site title, page title, and content headings.

Sumana

Sumana’s formal serif presence allows for high readability at larger sizes and low conflict with other headings, which benefits visual hierarchy. Sumana’s Irish feel also helps it fit well within Notre Dame’s brand elements.  

Usage: Card titles, headlines on news & events snippets, and blockquotes.

Libre Franklin

Libre Franklin’s simplicity and high readability within large blocks of text allow for low fatigue and a high level of scannability. Styles of Libre Franklin give content flexibility in hierarchy and readability.

Usage: Body copy, captions, buttons, and level 4-6 headings.