NAPP Committees
Welcome to our Committee Page!
Our committees play a crucial role in advancing the mission of NAPP. Comprised of dedicated professionals from diverse backgrounds, each committee brings together unique expertise and perspectives to drive impactful initiatives within our community. From organizing events to shaping policy, our committees work tirelessly to support our members, promote industry standards, and create a collaborative environment for growth and innovation.
We invite you to explore our committees, meet the members leading the charge, and learn about the exciting projects they’re undertaking. Interested in joining? Find out how you can contribute your skills and be part of our community’s future!
Advocacy Committee
Committee Chair: Dan Smith
Board Liaison: Devin Brennan
The Advocacy Committee of the National Association of Patent Practitioners (NAPP) closely monitors proposed legislation, PTO (Patent and Trademark Office) rules and procedures, and pertinent court activities. Through detailed reports, the committee keeps NAPP members informed about developments that could impact patent law and practice. The committee also actively submits comments and recommendations to relevant regulatory bodies, giving a unified voice to patent practitioners in shaping the rules and policies that govern their profession. This advocacy work ensures that NAPP members stay informed, represented, and prepared to navigate changes in the patent landscape.
AMC Committee
Committee Chair: Kirby Drake
Board Liaison: Jennifer Bales
The AMC Planning Committee is responsible for shaping the educational content and speaker lineup for the annual conference. The committee carefully outlines key topics that are timely, relevant, and beneficial to attendees, ensuring that the conference addresses emerging trends, challenges, and best practices in the field. In addition to topic selection, the committee actively seeks out knowledgeable and engaging speakers, including industry leaders and subject-matter experts, to deliver high-quality sessions. By curating the conference agenda, the AMC Planning Committee aims to provide an enriching and informative experience that meets the evolving needs of attendees and supports their professional development.
CaseLaw Analysis Committee
Committee Chair: Dan Kruger
Board Liaison: Via the Programs Committee
The CaseLaw Analysis Team creates short summaries of recent Federal Circuit and US Supreme Court decisions relevant to patent practice. These summaries are posted to the NAPP forums, and we plan to provide a searchable database on the NAPP website. By summarizing complex court rulings and analyzing their implications, the team ensures that NAPP members stay informed about legal precedents that shape patent law and practice. Each summary offers concise insights and at least one practical takeaway lesson to help practitioners better understand how case law developments might affect their clients and their own work.
Communications Committee
Committee Chair: Jennifer Bales
Board Liaison: Mike Carey
The Communications Committee supports communications to members, prospective members, and the larger community of patent practitioners, through email, social media, newsletters, video, our website, and our member forums. This includes showcasing the benefits of NAPP membership and strengthening the organization’s voice as an authority in patent law. The communications committee supports other NAPP committees by helping to publicize their activities and events, and highlights NAPP’s role in advocating for patent practitioners, providing professional development resources, and fostering a supportive network.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Task Force
Committee Chair: Xhavin Sinha (Interim)
Board Liaison: Xhavin Sinha
The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Task Force at NAPP is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that values and celebrates the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of all patent practitioners. Through advocacy, educational initiatives, and community-building efforts, the DEI Task Force works to promote equitable opportunities within the organization and the broader patent profession. By championing diversity in patent law, the Task Force aims to enhance innovation, strengthen collaboration, and ensure that the field reflects the diverse communities it serves. NAPP’s commitment to DEI is central to its mission, creating a welcoming space where every member can thrive.
Economic Survey Committee
Committee Chair: Michael Maicher
Board Liaison: TBA
The purposes of the committee are to draft, administer, analyze, and report on an economic survey focused on patent professionals once a year.
Governance Committee
Committee Chair: Dan Krueger
Board Liaison: Rich Baker
The Governance Committee is responsible for upholding the integrity and effectiveness of NAPP’s corporate governance framework. This includes regularly reviewing and updating the organization’s bylaws and articles of incorporation to ensure they align with best practices, legal requirements, and the evolving needs of the membership. In addition, the committee develops and refines other essential organizational rules, policies, and procedures that guide the conduct and decision-making within NAPP. By providing a robust governance structure, the committee supports transparency, accountability, and ethical standards across all levels of the organization, helping to ensure that NAPP operates in the best interests of its members and the broader patent community.
Membership Committee
Committee Chair: Genna Hibbs
Board Liaison: Joel Douglas
The Membership Committee is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and engaged community within NAPP by driving membership growth and enhancing member satisfaction. The committee develops and implements strategies to attract new members, that showcase the value of NAPP’s resources, networking opportunities, and professional development programs. Additionally, the committee works to strengthen member retention through outreach initiatives, feedback surveys, and tailored support that addresses the needs and interests of current members. By promoting an inclusive and welcoming environment, the Membership Committee aims to ensure that all patent practitioners feel valued and connected within the NAPP community, ultimately enriching the organization as a whole.
Mentoring Program Committee
Committee Chair: Mike Bendel
Board Liaison: via the Programs Committee
The Mentoring Program pairs interested mentees with experienced NAPP members, facilitates the introductory meeting, and provides mentoring guidance materials. Program participation requires a signed mentoring program agreement.
Professional Development Committee
Committee Chair: Guy Letourneau
Board Liaison: Anne Fahrni
The Professional Development Committee is dedicated to enhancing the skills and expertise of NAPP members by designing and delivering high-quality educational content. This committee identifies emerging trends and essential topics within patent law and related fields, creating relevant programs, workshops, webinars, and resources that cater to the diverse needs of its members. By collaborating with industry experts and utilizing innovative educational approaches, the committee ensures that members have access to valuable learning opportunities that support their professional growth and advancement. Ultimately, the Professional Development Committee plays a vital role in empowering patent practitioners to stay informed, refine their skills, and excel in their careers.
Programs Committee
Committee Chair: Mike Bendel
Board Liason: Dan Smith
The Programs Committee plays a pivotal role in enhancing the value of NAPP membership by evaluating, researching, and recommending new benefits and programs that meet the evolving needs of patent practitioners. This committee conducts thorough assessments of existing offerings to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation, ensuring that NAPP remains responsive to the demands of its members and the broader landscape of the patent profession. By analyzing industry trends, gathering member feedback, and exploring best practices, the Programs Committee strives to introduce initiatives that enhance professional growth, networking opportunities, and access to resources. Through its strategic efforts, the committee aims to enrich the member experience and reinforce NAPP’s position as a leading organization in the patent community.