Shannon Hughes Mastick brings an impressive blend of scientific training, legal expertise, and interpersonal skill to her appearance on Jeopardy. She is a partner at Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP, one of Chicago’s leading intellectual property law firms, while residing in Granger, Indiana. Her work spans the entire patent prosecution lifecycle, from drafting detailed patent applications to collaborating with examiners, coordinating with foreign associates, and preparing complex opinions relating to patentability, infringement, and freedom-to-operate issues.

Her legal practice focuses on electrical and computer technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation, medical devices, telecommunications systems, and cutting-edge software innovations. She represents a diverse set of clients, such as Fortune 100 corporations, universities, tech startups, and individual inventors. Shannon often describes her transition from scientific training into patent law as a natural extension of both her interest in technology and her strength as a “people person,” allowing her to blend analytical reasoning with client-focused communication.

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

Academic Excellence Rooted in Notre Dame’s Scientific and Legal Traditions

Shannon is a double graduate of the University of Notre Dame, completing both her Bachelor of Science in Physics and Philosophy and her Juris Doctor at Notre Dame Law School. As an undergraduate, she distinguished herself academically, earning membership in the Sigma Pi Sigma physics honor society and participating in the Glynn Family Honors Program. She was awarded the Dockweiler Medal for the best senior philosophy thesis, a notable achievement recognizing excellence in scholarly writing and interdisciplinary thought.

Her law school years were equally distinguished. She served on the Journal of Law, Ethics & Public Policy, participated in the Intellectual Property Law Society, and worked closely with clients in the Notre Dame IP and Entrepreneurship Clinic. She also earned the ABA–Bloomberg BNA Award for Excellence in the Study of Intellectual Property Law. As part of her broader education, Shannon studied abroad at John Cabot University in Rome, deepening her exposure to international perspectives and legal frameworks.

Recognition, Leadership, and Influence in the Intellectual Property Community

Professionally, Shannon has been recognized repeatedly for her contributions to patent law and her leadership within the legal community. She has completed both the Pathfinder and Fellowship programs of the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD), a prestigious national organization that fosters professional advancement and inclusivity within the legal field. Her accolades include honoree status in Illinois Rising Stars, inclusion in The American Registry’s Top Attorneys list, and selection for Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for Patent Law.

She is also active as an author and speaker. Shannon has written and presented extensively on matters related to robotics, medical device protection, AI innovations, and software advancements arising from COVID-19–era technology. Her legal scholarship and presentations make her a familiar voice at conferences and within practitioner circles focused on the intersection of technology and intellectual property.

Commitment to Women’s Leadership and Professional Communities

Beyond her client work, Shannon is deeply engaged in supporting women in the legal and intellectual property sectors. She serves on the Chicago board of the Coalition of Women’s Initiatives in Law, an organization dedicated to advancing women at all levels of legal practice. She is also an active member of the Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago (IPLAC) and ChiWIP, further strengthening her network across regional and national professional communities.

This involvement demonstrates her broader commitment to mentorship, community building, and expanding access within the IP field. Her participation in these organizations aligns with her reputation for being collaborative, approachable, and dedicated to the advancement of future practitioners—qualities that complement her technical and legal strengths.

A Life Rooted in Science, Sports, and the Notre Dame Community

Shannon’s relationship with Notre Dame extends well beyond academics. She has long been a passionate supporter of Fighting Irish athletics and continues to attend numerous football games each season. During her time at the university, she trained and competed in the Baraka Bouts women’s boxing program, earning the fight nickname “Motion to Strike.” The program, which raises funds for charitable initiatives, reflects both athletic discipline and personal dedication to service—traits that continue to define Shannon’s broader life and career.

Her recent appearance on Jeopardy, airing on November 26, brought additional public attention to her multifaceted background. As both a lawyer and a scientist at heart, she reflects the type of contestant who brings analytical thinking, curiosity, and intellectual agility to the game.

Shannon Hughes Mastick — Profile Summary Table