Agenda
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Day 1 — Main Conference
June 2, 2026
Continental Breakfast and Registration
Jacqueline Wright BonillaDirectorSterne KesslerFormer Deputy Chief Administrative Patent Judge, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
Farheena RasheedPartnerOrrick
Lisa PensabenePartnerO'Melveny & Myers LLP
This session provides a comprehensive review of USPTO and PTAB developments shaping IP law in 2026. We’ll explore leadership changes, policy shifts, AI’s growing role in examination and review, and emerging compliance challenges. Analyzing recent USPTO and PTAB leadership changes and their impact on operations.
- Assessing the DOGE-driven personnel shifts and implications for backlog and continuity
- Evaluating AI’s influence on patent eligibility, examination standards, and litigation strategies
- Examining the proposed “patent tax” and fee structure changes affecting portfolio management
- Forecasting upcoming legislative and regulatory shifts
Coffee Break
Ceyda MaisamiVP, Associate General Counsel, IP & StandardsHP
Laura WinstonPrincipalOffit Kurman
Suet LeeGlobal Trademark AttorneyFord Motor Company
As AI technologies usher in new threats—from algorithmic counterfeiting to automated domain squatting—brand protection has become more complex than ever. This panel explores how AI-generated content is reshaping trademark protection and offers actionable strategies for safeguarding brands in a digital-first marketplace.
- Analyzing emerging risks from AI-generated counterfeits
- Leveraging AI-powered monitoring, streamlined takedown processes, and platform partnerships to detect and respond swiftly
- Identifying domain protection best practices to establish centralized visibility
- Sharing innovative approaches for brand security including cross-functional partnerships with legal, IT, and marketing
P. Praise Nsoko-NkworManager, Software development & CompliancePersado Inc.
Layla MaurerStaff AttorneyLibrary Futures, NYU Law Engelberg Center on Innovation Law & Policy
Sophia RomanSenior Director & Lead Counsel, Emerging TechnologiesWalmart
Bhaveeni ParmarSenior Legal Counsel, TechnologyNPR
Legal teams are under pressure to do more with less, and technology promises efficiency—but it also introduces new risks. This session explores practical strategies for leveraging AI-driven tools and automation while maintaining critical human oversight. We’ll address the growing skills gap in the next generation of IP professionals, why the “human-in-the-loop” remains essential, and how to make informed decisions about integrating technology into your workflows.
- Implementing AI-powered tools to streamline IP portfolio monitoring and decision-making
- Integrating automation into key IP workflows to reduce manual effort and improve efficiency
- Applying best practices for responsible GenAI adoption in legal operations
- Ensuring human-in-the-loop oversight to mitigate risks and preserve judgment in high-stakes IP decisions
- Evaluating the skills gap in emerging IP talent and strategies for upskilling teams for tech-driven environments
- Deciding when and how to integrate technology—developing criteria for ROI, risk tolerance, and operational fit
- Mitigating risk by ensuring accuracy, accountability, and defensibility across AI-driven and automated IP processes
- Analyzing real-world case studies to uncover lessons from successful technology deployments
Networking Luncheon
Hon. Teresa ReaConsultantRea Consulting LLCFormer Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Acting Director, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
Jennifer Rea DeneaultPartnerGroombridge Wu Baughman & Stone
Christine Rea PrihodaCounsel, Strategic Transactions and M&AGilead Sciences
Hon. Teresa Rea, Former Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Acting Director at the USPTO will be joined by two of her daughters who are also leaders in IP law, one in-house, and the other private practice.
Join this intimate and inspiring conversation on how generational perspectives can shape leadership and career decisions in today’s evolving IP landscape.
- Exploring how family influences and early exposure to IP can shape career choices
- Identifying strategies for building resilience and confidence at pivotal career moments
- Comparing the realities of in-house versus law firm career paths for women in IP
- Discussing how mentorship and sponsorship differ across generations and practice settings
- Sharing lessons learned about leadership, adaptability, and thriving in a changing IP ecosystem
Lisa JakobExecutive Director, Intellectual PropertyMerck
Marylee JenkinsPartnerArentFox Schiff LLP
Alanna MouldsVice President, Business & Legal AffairsUniversal Music Group
Heidi H. TandyPartnerShutts & Bowen LLP
This session explores how women in IP can champion each other while embracing diverse perspectives to build resilient, innovative teams. Learn the distinctions between allyship, mentorship, and sponsorship, and discover how inclusive leadership models can harness cognitive diversity, including neurodivergent talent, to drive creativity and success.
- Clarifying the differences between allyship, mentorship, and sponsorship
- Exploring actionable steps for effective mentorship and sponsorship, including setting goals and creating visibility
- Championing cognitive diversity by recognizing unique strengths and fostering collaboration
- Navigating how to find and attract diverse talent aligned with emerging IP challenges and innovation goals
- Sharing success stories and lessons learned from women who have championed others and built inclusive teams
Networking Break
Focus on Inventorship
Ching-Lee FukudaPartnerSidley Austin LLP
SunHee Lehmann ThomasSenior Patent CounselHenkel Corporation
The relationship between in-house counsel and inventors is foundational for capturing accurate, high value invention quickly and cost-effectively as well as protecting the inventor’s interests throughout the process. This session begins by exploring how strong communication and trust between these parties set the stage for success. From there, we examine how outside counsel plays a critical role in preserving and enhancing this dynamic. Gain practical strategies to streamline interviews, align expectations, and optimize resources for better outcomes.
- Establishing effective protocols between in-house counsel and inventors
- Understanding the legal obligations of inventorship and the importance of clear communication between inventor and in-house counsel
- Evaluating criteria for selecting outside counsel that fits your business needs and culture
- Aligning outside counsel with internal processes and priorities
- Sharing real-world examples of successful collaborations among in-house and outside counsel as well as the inventors
- Lessons learned from common pitfalls
Rama ElluruSenior Advisor for AI Governance and Intellectual PropertySpecial Competitive Studies Project – SCSP
Angela B. FreemanPartner, Life Sciences and Engineering Practice UnitsBarnes & Thornburg LLP
Priyata PatelPartner Dechert LLP
As AI systems contribute to innovation, questions around inventorship and ownership are entering unknown territory. This session examines recent developments, practical corporate considerations, and strategies for compliance in a rapidly changing landscape.
- Assessing the legal implications of AI-generated inventions and their effect on inventorship standards
- What risks does this pose to ownership
- Interpreting recent case law and USPTO guidance to anticipate future trends regarding AI, innovation, and inventorship
- Formulating protocols that align corporate IP practices regarding AI and innovation with the latest guidance
- Mitigating inventorship and ownership risks in global patent filings through proactive planning and jurisdictional awareness
- Implementing best practices for managing AI-related disclosures to ensure accuracy and transparency
Day 1 Adjourns
Day 2 — Main Conference
June 3, 2026
Continental Breakfast and Registration
Hannah Ji-OttoPartnerQuarles & Brady LLP
Mary PennManaging Associate General Counsel, Intellectual Property Law and Policy Group Verizon Consumer Group
Ekene Chuks-OkekePrincipalCultural Enterprise
With companies relying on algorithms and proprietary datasets, IP protection is more vital than ever. Learn best practices for managing insider risk, cross-border data transfers, and incident response in hybrid work environments.
- Strengthening protocols for safeguarding proprietary algorithms and datasets
- Pinpointing vulnerabilities in cross-border data transfers and regulatory compliance
- Integrating robust security measures to protect IP and sensitive data across digital ecosystems
- Designing governance frameworks that adapt to hybrid and remote work environments
- Applying lessons learned from recent trade secret disputes to future-proof your strategy
Stephanie Bunting GlaserCounselPatterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP
Emily LanzaSenior CounselU.S. Copyright Office, Office of Policy & International Affairs
As synthetic media becomes ubiquitous, copyright law faces unprecedented challenges, from training datasets to deepfake creations. This session will focus on emerging copyright challenges involving AI-generated content.
- Analyzing major AI copyright cases from 2025 and implications for fair use and training data
- Understanding U.S. Copyright Office’s position—only human-authored or human-guided AI works may qualify for protection
- Reviewing how jurisdictions differ on training data rights, opt-outs, and AI-generated content protection
- Identifying strategic steps for safeguarding creative assets
Coffee Break
Board Readiness Series
Sheila RonningCEO & FounderWomen in the Boardroom
Board service is a powerful way to expand your influence and leadership impact but understanding how to position yourself for that next step requires intention, visibility, and the right strategic plan. In this session, Sheila will share her expertise on how women can clarify their unique value, highlight the experiences that matter most, and cultivate the networks that lead to board opportunities.
Attendees will understand how to think about the board journey holistically and how to build a roadmap that aligns with their ambitions.
- Defining what “board ready” means and the qualifications most boards seek
- Mapping pathways for in-house counsel, law firm partners, and government professionals
- Identifying the “king and queen makers” who influence board appointments and how to connect with them
- Determining which experiences should be emphasized to strengthen your board narrative
- Developing a strategic plan to build visibility and credibility in your industry
- Building visibility, credibility, and a strategic personal brand within your industry
- Assessing the competencies, leadership traits, and interpersonal strengths boards value
Networking Luncheon
Rachel BlitzerPartner Latham & Watkins LLP
Debbie JamesPrivate Equity Independent Board Director
Tara GiuntaBoard ChairInvest Ahead
Caren KhooVP & Deputy GCVerizon
Board Member, World Childhood Foundation
Hear from women in IP who have successfully navigated the board journey. This candid panel will explore the realities of serving on nonprofit versus for-profit boards, how to make the switch, and strategies for managing commitments while maximizing impact.
- Comparing the responsibilities and expectations of nonprofit versus for-profit boards
- Leveraging IP experience as a differentiator
- Navigating commitments, preparation, and workload across different board types
- Compensation structures, liability considerations, and time expectations for for-profit boards
- Identifying common mistakes and practical steps to strengthen your candidacy
Networking Break
Kimiya ShamsGeneral Counsel and Advisory Board Member
Clarisse De La CerdaDoctoral ResearcherSyracuse University
Manuela MacchiPartnerKeltie LLP
Megan WoodworthPartner Venable LLP
In today’s evolving global IP landscape, differences in filing requirements, market dynamics, and enforcement regimes require a more strategic approach to building and managing intellectual property assets. IP professionals must think beyond jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction filings and adopt coordinated strategies for IP portfolio development. This session offers practical guidance on navigating these complexities, with a focus on creating robust, internationally aligned IP portfolios designed to support long-term business objectives and enable effective enforcement.
- Identifying key challenges in multi-jurisdictional IP filings and developing effective strategies for streamlined global portfolio expansion
- Building IP portfolios with an eye toward enforceability, including determining the appropriate forms of IP protection, jurisdictional selection, and documentation strategies that strengthen future assertion positions
- Leveraging cross-border collaboration to build, manage, and optimize a cohesive and resilient global IP portfolio
- Aligning business objectives in a particular jurisdiction with the respective enforcement framework, including how to effectively incorporate AI tools into that activity
- Best practices for coordinating multi-jurisdictional IP enforcement (or defense) efforts
Jenny ColgateMemberRothwell Figg
Elizabeth MannoPartnerHolland & Hart LLP
Kimberly MaynardPartnerFrankfurt Kurnit Klein + Selz PC
Join our panelists for a discussion on the most significant IP cases and developments shaping the legal landscape in 2026. This session will provide actionable insights into how recent rulings and emerging trends are influencing IP litigation strategies, patent prosecution, and enforcement practices.
- Understanding the implications of recent decisions on software and source code protection, and what they mean for digital content creators
- Examining pivotal rulings on patent eligibility, enforcement, and the evolving standards impacting innovation-driven industries
- Implementing robust protection strategies considering recent litigation trends and heightened regulatory scrutiny
- Assessing the impact of high-profile disputes and rulings on brand enforcement and global trademark strategies