Officials with the Texas A&M University System have formally objected to the use of the “TexAM University” name by a North Texas Islamic educational entity already facing a state order to cease operations.
In a cease-and-desist letter issued Friday, the Texas A&M University System demanded that the Richardson-based organization immediately stop using names, trademarks, domains, and branding elements that officials say infringe upon or dilute Texas A&M’s trademarks.
The entity, which brands itself as “TexAM University” or “Texas American Muslim University at Dallas,” has promoted itself as an Islamic-centered institution offering STEM coursework integrated with Islamic studies.
According to the university system, the use of names such as “TexAM,” “Texas AM University,” and similar branding creates confusion and falsely suggests a connection to Texas A&M.
“The Texas A&M University System has a responsibility to protect the name and trademarks, which represent more than a century of academic excellence, public trust and institutional integrity,” said Chancellor Glenn Hegar. “When another organization uses branding that is similar, particularly in the same educational space, we must act to prevent confusion and protect the value of those marks.”
The system also stressed that the entity is not affiliated with or endorsed by Texas A&M University or the Texas A&M University System.
The organization behind TexAM is formally registered with the state as “Texas American Muslim Institute for Technology at Dallas.” In a statement earlier this week, founder and board chairman Shahid A. Bajwa said the institution operates under a DBA for “Texas American Muslim University at Dallas.”
The trademark dispute comes just one day after the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board ordered TexAM to immediately cease operations, alleging the institution was illegally operating without the required state authorization to offer higher education programs.
State officials said TexAM had been advertising STEM degree programs and admissions despite lacking a Certificate of Authority required under Texas law. Gov. Greg Abbott said he directed the action and warned legal action would follow if the institution refused to comply.
TexAM has disputed parts of the state’s characterization, saying it does not currently grant degrees or credentials and is seeking the approvals necessary to do so in the future.
Texas A&M officials said they are prepared to pursue “all necessary legal remedies” if the organization does not comply with the demand.
