We were honored to host former Chief Judge Paul R. Michel at Penn State Dickinson Law. Judge Michel, who led the nation’s patent court, has continued to champion innovation and intellectual property rights vigorously after his retirement. His current roles include leading initiatives such as the Council for Innovation Promotion and the United States Intellectual Property Alliance – USIPA (USIPA), as well as chairing the advisory board for the IP and Innovation Initiative at our law school.

The visit featured a series of engaging events. Dean Danielle Conway welcomed Judge Michel with a luncheon, followed by meetings with Dickinson College President Judge John Jones and General Counsel Vincent Champion, arranged with the help of Dickinson College alum Mike Schaengold. A highlight of the day was a fireside chat on Judge Michel’s career, his thoughts on leadership, and current challenges in intellectual property law, co-moderated by Dean Conway and myself.

The day concluded with a reception where Judge Michel interacted with students, faculty, and guests, leaving a lasting impression on our community with his wisdom and approachability.