Baylor University Sues Boston University Over “BU” Logo: A Trademark Infringement Case Decades in the Making
In a high-profile university trademark lawsuit, Baylor University has filed suit against Boston University over the use of an interlocking “BU” logo—allegedly identical to Baylor’s long-established, registered trademark. The case underscores the growing importance of trademark clearance searching, trademark registration, brand enforcement and intellectual property protection.
History of the BU Logo Dispute
This legal battle stems from a 1980s trademark conflict, when Baylor applied to register its interlocking “BU” logo—used by the Texas university since 1912. Boston University challenged the application, leading to a coexistence agreement in 1988. That agreement allowed both institutions to use the "BU" initials under specific conditions:
Baylor: Interlocking “BU” logo permitted
Boston University: Only allowed to use a side-by-side “BU” design—not interlocking
The recent lawsuit alleges that Boston University has violated this agreement.
Baylor's Allegations: Trademark Infringement and Brand Confusion
According to the complaint, Boston University began using a confusingly similar interlocking BU logo as early as 2018, appearing on:
Branded hats and apparel
Campus spirit store merchandise
Mugs, flags, and digital marketing materials
Club sports uniforms (rugby, sailing, cycling, volleyball)
Baylor argues that this constitutes trademark infringement, risking consumer confusion—especially when logos are printed in neutral colors where school-specific branding is less recognizable.
Key Legal Issues in the Baylor vs. Boston University Trademark Lawsuit
This college logo lawsuit raises several important legal questions for trademark attorneys and universities alike:
Does Boston University’s use breach the 1988 coexistence agreement?
Is the interlocking “BU” likely to cause consumer confusion?
Has Baylor’s trademark been diluted by Boston’s use?
Baylor’s lawsuit includes claims under both federal trademark law and Texas common law, including:
Trademark infringement
Unfair competition
False designation of origin
Breach of trademark coexistence agreement
Remedies Sought by Baylor University
Baylor’s lawsuit demands the following legal remedies:
Permanent injunction against Boston’s use of the interlocking logo
Destruction of all infringing merchandise and digital assets
Monetary damages and legal fees
Compliance reporting from Boston University within 30 days of judgment
Why This Case Matters: Brand Protection in Higher Education
This case highlights the increasing importance of brand protection for colleges and universities. As educational institutions invest heavily in merchandising, digital branding, and national visibility, protecting trademarks becomes a core legal and financial priority.
As noted by legal experts, if universities don’t proactively police their trademarks, they risk:
Losing exclusivity over long-standing brand assets
Confusing consumers and donors
Diluting licensing revenues
What Happens Next in the BU Logo Lawsuit?
Boston University has yet to issue a formal response. Under federal rules, they have approximately 60 days from service to respond. Potential outcomes may include:
A court trial on the merits of trademark confusion
Settlement or revised coexistence agreement
Cease-and-desist compliance or licensing renegotiation
This case will be closely watched by university administrators, general counsels, and intellectual property professionals nationwide.
Takeaway for Trademark Attorneys and University Clients
The Baylor v. Boston University lawsuit offers a clear reminder that coexistence agreements aren’t fail-proof. Institutions must:
Review historical agreements regularly
Monitor third-party logo use
Take swift legal action to avoid dilution and brand confusion
For law firms representing educational clients, this case is a textbook example of trademark enforcement strategy, logo protection, and intellectual property litigation in action. If you are interested in learning more about trademarks and how they can benefit your brand, click here to schedule a free consultation!