From Invention to Patent: Ellen Reilly’s Vital Role in the Gates Program

For a select few, the journey doesn’t end there. Those who receive a “patent nod” — a unique distinction established by the Gates program — embark on an extraordinary journey to take their invention beyond Graland’s gates. More than just a trophy or accolade, the patent nod acknowledges that a student’s idea is not only original enough to pursue a patent but also that the Gates program will provide financial support throughout the patent process. At this stage, Ellen Reilly, a patent, trademark, copyright & intellectual property attorney who heads Reilly Intellectual Property Law Firm, steps in to guide these young inventors through the complexities of the legal process. A patent nod is not awarded every year, making this recognition as special as it is aspirational.

 

Ms. Reilly has been involved with the Gates program since the early 2000s, and she considers it one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. “These students are my favorite to work with,” Ms. Reilly said. “They’re open to learning, willing to adapt, and their enthusiasm is unmatched.”

 Ms. Reilly’s path to becoming a patent attorney began in 2000 when she transitioned from her role as a deputy district attorney with the Arapahoe District Attorney’s Office to join her father in the practice of patent law. After his passing in 2016, she continued to uphold the family legacy, bringing the same dedication and expertise to her work with Graland students.

 Beyond her technical knowledge, Ms. Reilly’s role in the program is far more personal. She is a mentor, a guide, and a constant source of encouragement, helping students navigate the complexities of patent law while fostering their growth as young inventors.

 “It’s not just about obtaining a patent,” Ms. Reilly said. “It’s about showing these kids that their ideas are valuable, that they can create something meaningful, and that they have the confidence and skills to face challenges head-on.”

After a patent nod is announced at the final assembly, the countdown begins. “Once a product is publicly disclosed, like at the Expo, students have just one year to file for a patent. It’s a strict legal deadline, so there’s no time to waste,” Ms. Reilly said. A patent serves as a legal “Do Not Touch” sign, granting the inventor exclusive rights to make, use, and sell their invention. This protection ensures no one else can replicate or profit from the idea without permission.

After a patent nod is awarded, Ms. Reilly meets with the student to determine the type of patent best suited for their invention. She broke down the two main types of patents with an example: “A design patent protects the appearance of an item—like the shape of a pen—while a utility patent covers how it works—like the internal mechanics of the pen.” Both types safeguard a student’s intellectual property as they move forward with their invention. This is followed by a patentability search to ensure the idea is unique. “This search is a crucial step,” Ms. Reilly said. “It’s about discovering whether similar ideas are already out there. If not, we move forward with drafting the application.”

This process is complex and time-sensitive, but Ms. Reilly finds joy in working with young inventors. “These kids are doing adult work,” she said, “but they’re not weighed down by the same pressures as adults. They’re here to play, learn, and grow, and that pure joy makes it such a privilege to work with them.”

The full patent process can take years to complete. “Utility patents can take three to five years for approval, while design patents take six months to a year,” Ms. Reilly said. “Often, I’m still working with students when they’re in high school, finalizing their applications long after their Gates classes have ended.”

The patent nod doesn’t just recognize a great idea; it sparks a transformation. Ms. Reilly often says, “Once an inventor, always an inventor.” For many students, the Gates program is just the beginning of a lifelong journey in creativity and innovation.

Unlike adult inventors, who often approach the patent process as part of a job, these students are driven by curiosity and a love of learning. Ms. Reilly described their enthusiasm as “infectious.” “They’re not doing this because they have to; they’re doing it because they want to. And that makes all the difference.”

Along with the guidance and mentorship of individuals like Ms. Reilly and the amazing Gates coaches, the Charles C. Gates Endowment plays a vital role in making this entire process possible. Established by Charles C. Gates Jr. ’34, the endowment ensures that Graland’s young inventors can navigate the patent journey without financial barriers. As Ms. Reilly explained, securing a patent is a complex process, and the costs associated with it can add up quickly.

 “This process is expensive,” she said. “From the patentability search to the draftsman who creates professional-quality drawings, the costs add up quickly. Without the endowment and the ongoing support of Diane Gates ’69 Wallach, this program wouldn’t exist. It’s truly above and beyond.”

 Thanks to this financial support, students selected for the patent nod are able to move forward with their inventions, focusing on innovation rather than the financial hurdles that often come with the patent process. This legacy of generosity continues to inspire and empower future generations of inventors at Graland.

The Gates Invention & Innovation Program is a cornerstone of the school’s commitment to fostering intellectual excellence and stimulating innovation, and Ms. Reilly continues to play a pivotal role in its success. Her guidance, expertise, and passion have helped countless students realize their full potential as inventors.

 The patent nod is a testament to the program’s rigor and the students’ remarkable achievements. It’s also a reminder of the enduring impact of the Charles C. Gates Endowment and the generosity of the Gates family.

 Ms. Reilly’s work directly aligns with Charles C. Gates Jr.’s philosophy that the Gates program is about more than just inventions; it’s about inspiring the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators. Through her dedication, Graland students learn that with creativity, determination, and support, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.