In the first official alteration in its name since the company was incorporated in 1953, Rodale Press Inc. has changed its corporate name to Rodale. The company also unveiled a redesigned corporate logo.

Rodale president and COO Robert J. Teufel said the change represents the creation of a "corporate brand" that will serve to support and link the company's various products -- including Prevention and Men's Health magazines; Rodale's Active Living, Health and Organic Living book lines; TV projects; and Web sites.

While use of the new name and logo will begin immediately, it will be phased into all operations over the next two years and should be fully implemented by the end of 2000.