Shannon Hughes Mastick brings a rare combination of scientific training, legal expertise, and interpersonal strength to her recent appearance on Jeopardy. Based in Granger, Indiana, and practicing out of Chicago, she is a partner at the nationally respected intellectual property law firm Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP. Her work spans the full scope of domestic and international patent prosecution, including drafting applications, conducting examiner interviews, coordinating with foreign agents, and preparing patentability, infringement, and freedom-to-operate opinions.

Her practice focuses on high-growth technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, electrical and computer systems, automation, telecommunications, and medical devices. Shannon advises an exceptionally broad client base, ranging from Fortune 100 corporations to universities, established engineering teams, and individual inventors. Her ability to translate complex technical concepts into strong patent strategies has made her a trusted resource in industries where innovation moves quickly and accuracy matters.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NM5G7zaUuT0

Academic Excellence Rooted in Physics, Philosophy, and Intellectual Property Law

Shannon is a two-time graduate of the University of Notre Dame, earning both her Bachelor of Science in Physics and Philosophy and her Juris Doctor from Notre Dame Law School. As an undergraduate, she excelled academically, earning the Dockweiler Medal for the best senior philosophy thesis, joining the Sigma Pi Sigma physics honor society, and participating in the prestigious Glynn Family Honors Program. These experiences highlight her longstanding interest in scientific reasoning, ethics, and critical thinking.

Her law school achievements further demonstrate her commitment to intellectual property. While earning her JD, she served on the Journal of Law, Ethics & Public Policy, participated in the IP Law Society, and gained hands-on experience through Notre Dame’s IP and Entrepreneurship Clinic. Her strong academic performance earned her distinctions such as the ABA–Bloomberg BNA Award for Excellence in the Study of Intellectual Property Law. She also expanded her global perspective through a study-abroad program at John Cabot University in Rome.

Recognition, Leadership, and Thought Leadership in the IP Community

Professionally, Shannon has received significant recognition within the intellectual property field. She has participated in both the Pathfinder and Fellowship Programs of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD), programs designed to identify and support emerging leaders in the legal profession. Her achievements have earned her selection for Illinois Rising Stars, The American Registry’s Top Attorneys, and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for Patent Law.

Shannon is also a frequent author and speaker, contributing scholarship and presentations on topics such as robotics innovation, medical device IP strategy, artificial intelligence protections, and software technologies developed during the COVID-19 era. Her work helps educate both clients and legal peers, bridging technical understanding with legal strategy.

Supporting Women in Law and Contributing to Professional Communities

Beyond her direct legal practice, Shannon remains deeply engaged in organizations that support women in intellectual property. She serves on the Chicago board of the Coalition of Women’s Initiatives in Law and maintains active involvement in ChiWIP and the Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago (IPLAC). In these roles, she works to expand mentorship opportunities, develop professional programming, and strengthen community networks for women building IP careers.

Her passion for collaboration and mentorship reflects her self-described identity as a “people person,” balancing the analytical nature of patent law with a commitment to relationship-building and professional support.

A Life Rooted in Science, Service, and Notre Dame Tradition

Shannon’s connection to Notre Dame extends far beyond academics. She competed in the university’s Baraka Bouts women’s boxing program under the nickname “Motion to Strike,” participating not only in athletic training and competition but also in its mission-driven fundraising initiatives. She is also a dedicated supporter of Notre Dame athletics and remains a loyal Fighting Irish football fan, attending numerous games each season.

Her Jeopardy appearance—airing on November 26—added a new dimension to her public presence. As both a scientist at heart and a seasoned patent attorney, she brings curiosity, precision, and intellectual agility that align naturally with the spirit of the show.

Shannon Hughes Mastick — Profile Summary Table