Baylor University and Boston University could resolve their federal trademark dispute after the schools reported substantial progress toward a settlement. Baylor must either file an agreement ending the case or provide another update by Oct. 9, 2026. The terms of any settlement have not been disclosed.
Baylor sued Boston University’s trustees on Aug. 8, 2025. The complaint alleges trademark infringement, unfair competition and a false designation of origin under the Trademark Act of 1946. Baylor told the court Sept. 9 that it expected to report back within two weeks, but a Sept. 23 filing said the case was not ready for dismissal.
Baylor President Linda Livingstone said the universities are working toward a resolution.
Baylor has used its logo since 1912 and applied for federal registration in 1987. Boston University initially challenged that application before the schools agreed both could use the letters "BU." Boston traditionally placed the letters side by side, while Baylor used an interlocked version.
Boston began selling merchandise and club sports jerseys with interlocked letters in 2018. Baylor contacted Boston in 2021, and the design remained on Boston-sponsored and licensed merchandise, according to the source. Livingstone said Baylor’s brands and trademarks were important to protect.
