HATTIESBURG (AP) – The Southern Miss Department of Athletics has successfully completed the trademarking and registering process for the new Southern Miss Golden Eagle logo.

The Hattiesburg American reports (http://hatne.ws/1dPTfeR) the new Golden Eagle logo has officially gained trademark status by the United States Patent and Trademarking Office.

The logo process took over a year to complete and was spearheaded by Southern Miss alum Rodney Richardson and his company Rare Design, as they assisted with the creation and development of the new logo and brand identity.

Rare Design has worked with numerous different universities and professional teams including the New Orleans Pelicans, Florida State Seminoles, Charlotte Hornets and Memphis Grizzlies to design their logos and branding.

Merchandise and apparel featuring the new Golden Eagle logo will be officially available for purchase beginning July 15.