Franklin V. Franklin: Schools Battle Over Name

INDIANAPOLIS -- Franklin College claims in a federal lawsuit that Ohio-based Franklin University is causing identity confusion as it prepares to open an Indianapolis location.

Franklin College President James Moseley said in a statement that the lawsuit filed Monday was necessary to protect the "good name and reputation" of the 175-year-old liberal arts school located about 20 miles south of Indianapolis.

"Since Franklin University began its advertising blitz in Central Indiana this spring, we have received calls, comments and e-mail messages from many people asking why we changed our name or whether we've opened a satellite office for online education in Indianapolis," he said. "We have great concerns about the impact of the obvious confusion, especially with prospective students and employers of our alumni."

Franklin College also argues that Franklin University is using a clock tower design and colors similar to its own in advertising that makes it appear the two schools are affiliated.

Columbus, Ohio-based Franklin University targets older students with campus and online courses and will primarily offer business classes in Indianapolis.

Franklin University spokeswoman Sherry Mercurio said in a statement that the school has been "publicizing its presence in Indianapolis using its own name in a completely factual and consistent manner.

"It is unfortunate that Franklin College did not contact us if it had concerns about our marketing, since we did advise the president of Franklin College of our intentions prior to beginning to offer programs in Indianapolis in 2009," she said in the statement.

Mercurio said Franklin University would act to protect the right to use its own name to publicize its programs.

More Information:

Full Franklin College Statement

Full Franklin University Statement