Mark T. Banner Scholarship

This scholarship is part of The Richard Linn American Inn of Court's commitment to fostering the development of intellectual property lawyers of high ethics, civility and professionalism, including those from diverse backgrounds.

Eligibility

Law students who are enrolled in a JD program at an ABA-accredited law school in the United States and who will continue in that program through the Fall 2026 are eligible to apply for the Mark T. Banner Scholarship.

Selection Criteria

Scholarship recipients will be selected by the Mark T. Banner Scholarship review board based on the following criteria:

Demonstrated Commitment to a Career in Intellectual Property Law: Applicants must show a clear and sustained interest in pursuing a career in intellectual property law.

Ethics, Civility, and Professionalism: Exemplary qualities and actions reflecting integrity and respect in both personal and professional conduct.

Academic Achievement: Strong academic performance in undergraduate, graduate, and law school studies.

Exceptional Communication Skills: Written and oral communication abilities, including evaluation through a video interview for finalists.

Leadership and Community Engagement: Demonstrated leadership skills and active participation in initiatives that contribute positively to the community.

Resilience and Overcoming Adversity: The ability to illustrate personal resilience through overcoming significant challenges or hardships, which could include, but are not limited to, socio-economic disadvantages, first-generation educational attainment, familial or personal hardships, or other compelling circumstances.

Financial Award

The recipient of the Mark T. Banner Scholarship will receive $10,000 payable for their/her/his Fall 2026 semester of law school.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted from now through 11:59 p.m. (CST) on the due date. The winner will be notified by April 2026 and the award will be announced at the Richard Linn American Inn of Court Annual Scholarship Dinner in Summer of 2026.

Applicants should submit the following documents as a single PDF format file for consideration:

• Completed Mark T. Banner Scholarship Application Form
• Resume
• Academic transcripts (law school, undergraduate/graduate school)
• Three-page statement (maximum) describing (a) how ethics, civility and professionalism have been a focus of the candidate; (b) how the candidate has overcome significant challenges or hardships; and (c) the candidate's commitment to the pursuit of a career in IP law
• Contact information for three references (this form)