Sterne Kessler Directors Recognized as Women Worth Watching by Profiles in Diversity Journal

WASHINGTON, DC (October 26, 2016) – Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. is pleased to announce that Directors Tracy-Gene G. Durkin and Eldora L. Ellison, Ph.D. have been recognized as winners in the 15th anniversary edition of “Women Worth Watching” by Profiles in Diversity Journal.

In the profile feature of Ms. Durkin, Profiles in Diversity Journal recognized her “global reputation for excellence in design patent law” and how she is sought after by leading companies for her expertise in design patent law. Profiles in Diversity Journal also highlighted Ms. Durkin’s “three decades of experience obtaining and enforcing intellectual property rights” as the driving force of her becoming a leading authority in design patent law. The publication also referenced Ms. Durkin as not only being the first woman to be elected as equity director to the firm but also the first woman to serve on the Executive Committee.

In the profile feature of Dr. Ellison, Profiles in Diversity Journal recognized her as a “trailblazer in patent litigation” and as a “recognized leading practitioner in life sciences.” The driving force behind Dr. Ellison’s litigation practice was credited to her “early work in patent prosecution and her extensive experience handling patent interferences, district court litigation, transactional matters, and serving as an expert witness.” Additionally, Dr. Ellison was recognized as a “prolific writer” for her numerous articles that are published “in a broad array of legal and industry publications.” Profiles in Diversity Journal also noted Dr. Ellison as being the firm’s first African-American director and the first to serve on the Executive Committee.

Launched in 2002, the award aims to applaud “achievements made by women executives” and sets to “honor the companies encouraging, supporting, and embracing their success.” Award recipients are selected following nominations made by their employers, colleagues, peers, and mentors.

The full profiles and photos of Ms. Durkin and Dr. Ellison may be seen here.

About Sterne Kessler:
Founded in 1978 and based in Washington, DC, Sterne Kessler is dedicated exclusively to the protection, transfer, and enforcement of intellectual property rights. Our team of attorneys, registered patent agents, students, and technical specialists include some of the country’s most respected practitioners of intellectual property law. Most of our professionals hold an advanced level degree, including more than 50 masters degrees and almost 55 with a doctorate in science or engineering — credentials wide and deep enough to fill the faculty of a science-oriented university.