Democratizing Intellectual Property Education: A Year of Impact

By Chinwe Ohanele Agwu

As 2024 draws to a close, the Michelson Intellectual Property Institute (MIPI) celebrates a year full of achievements, milestones, and transformative initiatives. This year, we deepened our mission to democratize intellectual property (IP) education. The commitment was demonstrated by helping more communities access the knowledge and tools needed to innovate and thrive. From shining a spotlight on young inventors making their mark in California to expanding our impact across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), 2024 has been extraordinary.

IP as Global Engagement

The year began on a high note as MIPI participated in the Global IP Conference at Georgia State University. This event gathered thought leaders, educators, and policymakers from around the world to discuss the transformative power of intellectual property. The conference highlighted key themes—education, IP ecosystem collaboration, and diversity—that align with MIPI’s core values.

MIPI participated in a panel exploring regional approaches to IP education. Panelists shared that in South America, IP education is largely policy-driven. We discussed ways non-profit organizations leverage global partnerships to teach IP within the context of entrepreneurship. The panel also explored MIPI’s modular institutional approach. Every participant recognized that IP education ultimately benefits learners around the world.

The global context continued beyond our panel. Experts addressed the intersection of artificial intelligence and IP. They also explored how Japan’s focus on bridging the gender gap in IP impacts the economy. Finally, others dove into Ecuador’s initiatives embracing linguistic and ethnic diversity. These discussions reinforced the need for inclusive strategies to empower underrepresented communities worldwide.

Championing Innovation in K-12 Education

Passed in August, Senate Resolution 106 (SR106) marked a significant victory for IP awareness, designating October as California’s inaugural IP Awareness Month. The passage of the resolution resulted directly from advocacy and collaboration among students, educators, and policymakers. We stood proudly alongside students from Mira Loma High School, Le Grand Elementary, and Calistoga Unified Junior-Senior High School as they gathered at the State Capitol for the historic moment.

Building on the momentum of SR106, MIPI kicked off the “Ideas to Invention” webinar series, aimed at highlighting the ingenuity of young inventors. On the first webinar we hosted in partnership with the California Intellectual Property Alliance (CAIPA), students from Mira Loma shared the development of the Coolar, a smart dog collar that alerts owners to hazardous sidewalk temperatures. On the next webinar, Calistoga students showcased their wearable cooling devices designed for firefighters and agricultural workers. These inventions, driven by real-world challenges, demonstrated how IP education can inspire innovative solutions and empower students to protect their ideas.

The series also provided an opportunity for patent attorneys to discuss the process of securing intellectual property rights. By partnering with young inventors, the attorneys demystified the patenting process and emphasized the importance of protecting creativity at every stage.

Expanding the HBCU Ecosystem

MIPI’s work with HBCUs reached new heights in 2024. At the UNCF UNITE Conference, MIPI partnered with the Michelson Medical Research Foundation to host a groundbreaking panel exploring the research and innovation ecosystem at HBCUs.

The panel featured:

• Dr. Barney Graham, Professor of Medicine and Senior Advisor for Global Health Equity at Morehouse School of Medicine
• Dr. Erica Johnson, Associate Professor of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, and Co-Director of the Vaccine Trials Unit at Morehouse School of Medicine
• Dr. Muhsinah Morris, Virtual Reality Pioneer, Director of Morehouse in the Metaverse, and Assistant Professor of Education at Morehouse College

These experts explored how HBCUs can leverage research, technology transfer, and innovation. Their conversations focused on overcoming systemic barriers and building a thriving innovation ecosystem with lasting impact. Discussions also emphasized the vital role of tech transfer offices, the current obstacles that limit the potential of researchers at HBCUs, and the importance of fostering a culture of innovation.

Additionally, MIPI published the HBCU Futures Collaborative Impact Report, which outlined progress in integrating IP education into the HBCU ecosystem. Arguably one of the year’s most significant achievements, the report illustrates  the transformative power of equipping students and faculty with IP knowledge and resources, positioning them to lead in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

A Milestone in Legal Fellowship  

The launch of MIPI’s Legal Fellowship Program was another landmark moment in 2024. The inaugural fellowship, designed to address the glaring lack of diversity in IP law, welcomed its first fellow, Elleyse Garrett, a second-year law student at Loyola Law School. Guided by Professor Lateef Mtima of Howard University, Ms. Garrett has already begun critical research to understand the IP offerings and gaps within the HBCU landscape.

Ms. Garrett’s work aims to bridge gaps in the literature about how HBCUs are building their innovation ecosystems. MIPI believes this work will guide other foundations and investors in accelerating research and innovation within the HBCU ecosystem.

Welcoming a New Cohort of HBCU Innovators

Building on the successes of the HBCU IP Futures Collaborative, MIPI welcomed a new cohort of educators dedicated to advancing IP education across their campuses. This cohort represents a diverse range of institutions and disciplines, united by their commitment to empowering the next generation of inventors, researchers, and entrepreneurs.

The educators will integrate IP frameworks into their curricula, foster a culture of innovation, and address the specific needs of their students. Scaling our impact through this cohort, MIPI is ensuring that HBCUs remain at the forefront of innovation and economic empowerment.  Learn more about the HBCU IP Futures Collaborative through our website and join us in welcoming this year’s cohort:

• Jason Moore, Associate Professor of Business, Paul Quinn College
• Akissi Brooks, Department Chair, Shorter College
• Marcya Burden, Honors College Director, Oakwood University
• Horace “Justin” Ballenger, Assistant Professor, Morehouse College
• Monica Tompkins, Business and CIS Instructor, Coahoma Community College

Looking Ahead  

As we reflect on 2024, we feel inspired by our progress and the partnerships forged. This year, we witnessed how intellectual property drives innovation, equity, and opportunity across diverse communities.

From the young inventors shaping our future to the educators transforming HBCUs into hubs of innovation, MIPI’s work is a testament to the transformative potential of IP education. As we step into 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission to democratize intellectual property and build a more inclusive world where creativity and innovation can flourish.

Here’s to a future filled with inspiration, collaboration, and groundbreaking achievements!

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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