Supporting the Future,  

One Woman at a Time 

By Joan Toth 

Executive Director 

One of the most rewarding parts of being ChIPs Executive Director is meeting our ChIPs scholarship recipients each year. This year ChIPs is awarding three scholarships, more than ever before. And this year the members of our Scholarship Committee selected the scholarship recipients from a nationwide pool of more than 100 students entering their third year of law school. These young women have inspirational stories — and promising futures. They are the next generation of ChIPsters. 

ChIPs Board Member Karen Robinson, senior vice president and deputy general counsel of Adobe, called Molly Yancher of UC Irvine School “an outstanding choice, with an extensive background in healthcare and passion for both science and the law. I have no doubt she will make a great impact in the life sciences and healthcare industries.” She cited Yancher’s exceptional GPA, leadership in her local ChIPs chapter, mock trial participation, mentorship of women in IP, and board service with the campus IP Law Society. 
 

ChIPs Board Director Victoria Espinel, CEO of the Business Software Alliance (BSA), commended on scholarship recipient Brhea D’Mello of the University of Miami School of Law. “Brhea’s dedication to community and leadership in tech law were immediately compelling,” Victoria said. “Her passion for building inclusive communities in tech and law stood out.” A ChIPs member and student leader, D’Mello co-founded two student organizations, served as president of the IP Law Society, vice president of the Tech Club, and was a founding member of the AI Practicum. 

ChIPs Board Director Stephanie Burns, senior vice president and general counsel at Sony Interactive Entertainment, recognized Sydney Martens of Georgetown University. Stephanie said, “Sydney is not only a strong student, but also an advocate for other women. Her advocacy and pro bono work at the Women’s Clinic at the Veterans Consortium in Washington, D.C., is inspiring.” Burns noted that Martens mentors two first-year students, is developing deep expertise in tech law, and has interned at both the ITC and the Department of Justice. “Her focus on IP and technology law positions her as a future leader in the field.” 

I want to congratulate these three university students — and thank the members of our scholarship committee. I especially want to thank the donors who help underwrite our scholarship program and invest in the next generation of female IP legal talent. I cannot wait to meet the recipients in person at our Global Summit this October! 

Best regards,