Baylor University has filed a federal lawsuit against Boston University, alleging that BU’s use of an interlocking “BU” logo is “essentially identical” to Baylor’s long‑standing trademarked design, causing confusion and diluting its brand.
Baylor’s complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in Waco, Texas, cites trademark infringement, unfair competition, and false designation of origin. The interlocking “BU” has served as Baylor’s visual identity since at least 1912 and was federally registered in 1988. Baylor claims decades of widespread use have built significant public goodwill around that logo.
The lawsuit traces the dispute back to 1987 when Baylor applied to register the design and Boston University opposed. In 1988, a coexistence agreement was reached, allowing both institutions to use the “BU” initials—but in distinct styles. Boston typically used side-by-side lettering, which Baylor did not contest.
According to Baylor, the conflict resumed in 2018 when BU began selling hats with an interlocking version of the logo through its campus store. Despite Baylor’s objections in 2021, Boston expanded use of the contested mark, now seen on merchandise and used by club sports programs. Baylor argues that the usage likely misleads consumers and allows Boston to unfairly benefit from its brand equity.
Baylor’s filing demands the court permanently bar Boston University from using any confusingly similar interlocking “BU” mark. The university also seeks destruction of infringing materials and recovery of litigation costs.
Both universities declined to comment, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
