TJSL student Daniel Dowling says he was “thrilled” to find out he was a finalist in the Georgia State University Intellectual Property Writing Competition, but was “ecstatic” to find out “that I actually won 1st place!”
As the first place winner, Dowling will receive $3,000. He also will present his paper at the 2013 Corporate IP Institute conference in Atlanta, GA and have his paper published in the conference materials. The two-day event being held on November 4-5 will bring together 200 IP professionals to discuss intellectual property issues, stories and strategies of corporations at Georgia State University College of Law.
“It is very exciting that intellectual property experts acknowledged my ideas as meaningful contributions to the field,” noted Dowling. “I feel very fortunate to be able to take advantage of this amazing opportunity,” said Dowling. “I can't wait to go present.”
Dowling’s paper addressed legal issues and challenges in the intellectual property field. “My note addresses uncontrolled uses of trademarks and the effect of such on a mark holder’s rights,” explains Dowling. “Specifically, my contention is that a mark holder who proffers an alleged infringer with a covenant not to sue, in an effort to avoid litigation, has effectively failed to police its mark such that abandonment is justified.”
Winners were determined on originality of thought; contributions to the law and practice; completeness of scholarly research; and the overall style and content of the work.
“Professor Steve Semeraro was instrumental in the writing process at every level,” said Dowling. “Through the directed study program, Professor Semeraro provided direction for my paper by helping me to identify the legal problem and craft a thesis that provided a solution. Professor Semeraro oversaw the process from beginning to end, going above and beyond by offering several rounds of detailed edits to help me refine my paper.”
“Daniel encouraged me to be a tough critic, and I pulled no punches,” said Professor Semeraro. “Daniel invariably responded cheerfully to every round of comments. I enjoyed seeing his paper gradually improve and am very gratified that his work and skill have been recognized.”
