SMSU applies for trademarks
SMSU officials said they will not use trademarks unless granted the name change.
Published Feb. 4, 2005
MU officials and members of the Missouri General Assembly expressed strong concern about Southwest Missouri State University's application for a trademark for the name "Missouri State University" before a proposed name change has passed.
Last February, SMSU applied for three trademarks. Two of them allow for the use of "Missouri State University" and "Missouri State" on clothing and apparel.
The other trademark would involve using the name more generically, for educational services and sports events.
John Black, general counsel for SMSU, said the decision to apply for the trademarks was a precaution.
"Should the legislature grant the name to the university, we need to be prepared to protect it," Black said. "Since the bill has had a lot of momentum and an excellent chance for success, other people will be noticing that. We sure wouldn't want anyone to take advantage of the name."
UM system President Elson Floyd said it was too early for SMSU, located in Springfield, Mo., to apply for the trademarks.
"They should not have sought a trademark until the General Assembly approved the name change," Floyd said.
Although SMSU does not have the trademarks yet, Black said he feels the name is protected.
"We've got it filed where we are in line," Black said. "They are also an intent-to-use application. We believe it's more protected than if we had done nothing."
Sen. Chuck Graham, D-Columbia, an opponent of the SMSU name change, echoed Floyd, saying it is too early to seek the trademarks.
"I think it's tremendously premature to lay claim to a name that the General Assembly and the governor has not given you," Graham said.
Black said he is optimistic the General Assembly will grant SMSU the name change.
"I sure think it has a good chance," Black said. "It's good for the state of Missouri. There's no good reason for it not to pass."
Graham said there is little reason to believe the bill will pass because it has died every year it's been introduced since the '80s.
"It's just another shameless move to try to steal something that is not theirs," Graham said. "They have no standing to lay claim to a name that is ours."
The move comes on the heels of the Senate Education Committee giving its approval to the name-change bill. The bill is slated to come to a full vote in the Senate where, if it passes, it will be sent to the House.
Gov. Matt Blunt, who lives in Springfield, has indicated support for the name change.
