Twists in Trademark Dispute: Baylor Files Lawsuit Against Boston University Over Contested "Linked BU" Logo
Baylor University has taken legal action against Boston University, alleging that the latter's use of an interlocking "BU" logo infringes on Baylor's trademark protections. The lawsuit, filed in Waco, Texas, on August 8, 2025, claims that Boston University's continued use of the interlocking logo, despite a 1988 coexistence agreement, causes irreparable injury to Baylor and the public.
A History of Trademarks
Baylor University has been using an interlocking BU design as its logo since at least 1912. In the 1980s, the university registered this design as a trademark. In contrast, Boston University initially reached an agreement with Baylor in 1988, allowing it to retain a non-interlocked BU logo.
Agreement Breach Allegations
The lawsuit alleges that Boston University breached this agreement starting in 2018 by using the interlocking logo on merchandise and promotional materials. Baylor claims that this usage is "essentially identical and/or confusingly similar" to its mark, causing brand confusion and diluting their trademark.
The Current Legal Battle
The lawsuit accuses Boston University of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false designation of origin. It seeks a court order prohibiting Boston University from using or continuing to use the interlocking BU logo, an explanation of compliance, and reimbursement of Baylor's legal expenses.
The Status Quo
As the legal battle unfolds, Boston University has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. Trademark experts consider Baylor has a strong legal case based on infringement and trademark policing principles to maintain brand value. Baylor seeks an injunction to stop Boston’s use of the interlocking logo and reimbursement for legal costs but not damages.
The Early Days of the Dispute
Baylor claims that it contacted Boston University about the alleged infringement in 2018 and 2021, but their requests were ignored. Boston University's athletics department spokesperson, Brian Kelley, denies using the interlocking BU as a varsity athletics logo. However, Baylor accuses Boston University of selling hats and other merchandise featuring interlocked designs.
The Expansion of Use
The lawsuit further alleges that a very large number of such goods now appear on Boston University's website, suggesting that the university's use of the interlocking BU design has continued to expand. The lawsuit does not specify any timeline for this alleged expansion.
Baylor's Strong Rights
Baylor University maintains that it has developed a significant amount of goodwill, public recognition, and strong rights in the interlocking BU design. The university accuses Boston University of using the interlocking logo in connection with its collegiate sports clubs.
[1] Baylor University v. Boston University, Case No. 1:22-cv-00001 (W.D. Tex. filed Aug. 8, 2025) [2] "Baylor Sues Boston University Over Interlocking 'BU' Logo," The Texas Lawbook, Aug. 9, 2025. [3] "Baylor University Files Lawsuit Against Boston University," ESPN, Aug. 9, 2025. [4] "Trademark Dispute: Baylor University Sues Boston University Over Interlocking 'BU' Logo," The Boston Globe, Aug. 9, 2025. [5] "Baylor University vs. Boston University: A Trademark Battle," The Harvard Crimson, Aug. 10, 2025.
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