Artificial Intelligence (AI)–Generated Content Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in the creation of marketing and communications materials representing McNeese State University. While AI technologies can enhance creativity and efficiency, their use must align with the University’s brand standards, visual identity guidelines, and institutional values.

Scope

This policy applies to all University faculty, staff, departments, offices, and student organizations producing marketing, promotional, or informational materials that represent the University in any official capacity.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Print publications
• Websites and digital platforms
• Social media channels
• Email communications
• Advertising and promotional materials
• Presentations, signage, or displays

Use of AI-Generated Images

AI-generated images may be used in University communications when appropriate; however, the following requirements apply:

Review and Approval

All AI-generated images intended for use in University marketing or communications must be submitted to the Office of Marketing and Communications (marketing@mcneese.edu) for review and approval prior to publication or distribution in any medium.

Brand and Content Standards

AI-generated images must align with University brand standards, messaging guidelines, and visual identity policies. Images that could misrepresent the University, depict unrealistic or misleading scenarios involving the institution, or conflict with institutional values may not be approved for use.

Accuracy and Representation

AI-generated images should not be presented in a way that implies they depict actual University facilities, events, students, faculty, or staff unless clearly identified as conceptual or illustrative.

Use of University Logos in AI-Generated Content

University logos, marks, and seals must be used in accordance with established brand standards.

Because AI tools frequently distort or improperly reproduce official marks:

• University logos, marks, or seals should not be included in AI prompts or generated directly by AI tools.
• Logos should instead be added to the final design using official University logo files after the AI-generated image has been created.
• All logos must follow official logo usage guidelines, including placement, size, color, and clear-space requirements.

AI-Generated Images Depicting Students

To avoid misrepresentation of the University community:

• AI-generated images should not be used to represent actual University students.
• AI-generated images should not be presented as real campus photography, including staged scenes that appear to depict actual campus life.

When authentic representation of campus life is needed, real photography of University students and campus activities should be used whenever possible.

Disclosure and Labeling of AI-Generated Content

Transparency is important when AI-generated content is used in official University communications.

When AI-generated images are used:

• Materials should include a clear disclosure when the AI-generated content could reasonably be interpreted as real photography or documentation.
• Acceptable disclosures may include language such as:
  • “Image created using artificial intelligence.”
  • “AI-generated conceptual illustration.”
  • “Concept image generated with AI.”

Disclosure may not be necessary for clearly illustrative or artistic graphics where the use of AI would not reasonably cause confusion.

The Office of Marketing and Communications may require disclosure labeling in specific situations.

Ethical and Responsible Use

Individuals using AI tools must ensure that AI-generated content:

• Does not violate copyright, trademark, or intellectual property rights
• Does not misrepresent the University or create misleading impressions
• Does not depict individuals or groups in ways that could be discriminatory, offensive, or inconsistent with University values
• Complies with all applicable University policies and laws

Oversight

The Office of Marketing and Communications reserves the right to review, approve, request modifications to, or prohibit the use of AI-generated content representing the University.

Questions

Questions regarding the use of AI-generated content should be directed to the Office of Marketing and Communications. (marketing@mcneese.edu)

Communication

This policy is distributed via the University Policies webpage.