Baylor University and Boston University are approaching a settlement in a federal trademark dispute tied to Boston’s use of an interlocking “BU” logo. Baylor filed the case against Boston University’s trustees on Aug. 8, 2025, citing trademark infringement, unfair competition and false designation of origin under the Trademark Act of 1946.
Baylor President Linda Livingstone told the Baylor Lariat that the universities are working together on the litigation. “I think we are close to a resolution,” she said.
Baylor notified the court Sept. 9 that the parties were discussing a settlement and expected to provide another update within two weeks. In a Sept. 23 filing, the university said negotiations had advanced but that the case was not ready to be dismissed. Baylor said it would either submit a dismissal agreement or provide another status report by Oct. 9, 2026.
Baylor began using its logo in 1912 and sought federal trademark registration in 1987. Boston initially challenged that application, according to information cited by the Lariat, but the schools later entered an agreement allowing both to use “BU” marks. Baylor used an interlocked design, while Boston historically displayed the letters next to each other.
The dispute grew after Boston began selling merchandise and club-sports jerseys featuring an interlocked design in 2018. Baylor contacted Boston in 2021, but the article said Boston continued using the design on school-sponsored and licensed products. Livingstone said Baylor considers protection of its trademarks and brands important.
