Farewell from USPTO’s Commissioner for Patents
Guest blog by Commissioner for Patents Peggy Focarino
As many of you know, I will be retiring from the USPTO at the end of the month after 38 years of service. I started my career here as a patent examiner in 1977, a few months after I graduated from college. At that time my goal was to become a Primary Examiner - I never dreamed I would rise through the ranks and have the opportunity to serve as Commissioner for Patents. I’m so honored to have had this job, and I feel privileged to have worked here at the USPTO over the years with so many talented colleagues.
As I prepare to leave the office, I’ve had some time to reflect on my career here – where I’ve spent nearly two thirds of my life – and to think about my colleagues and the values they represent.
It’s been an honor and pleasure to work with such a wonderfully diverse group of people. That diversity is part of our strength, and it is so gratifying to have watched it grow to a level I could never have imagined back in 1977. We have accomplished so much over the years by working together – and I believe the agency has never been stronger.
I’m grateful to Under Secretary Michelle Lee for the confidence she has placed in me and her collaborative leadership style in continuing to move the agency forward. I know the USPTO will continue to achieve great things under her inspired leadership.
I’m confident that with the addition of Deputy Under Secretary Russ Slifer to the team, the agency is poised to continue on a path of excellence in the quality of the products and services we provide.
I want to personally thank all the members of my staff for their dedication and support over the last several years. I could not have survived without them!
And finally, I want to wish everyone at the USPTO the best of success as you continue your vital work for the agency – and our great country.
Posted at 07:03AM Jun 23, 2015 in ip | Comments[1]
Posted by Bob Spaulding on June 28, 2015 at 11:35 AM EDT #