OGC Offsite Retreat
General Counsel Kerry led an offsite training
for all of the attorneys at the Department of Commerce on September 22, 2010.
This training at the United States Patent and Trademark Office in
Alexandria marks the third time the entire Office of General Counsel (OGC) has
met as a group during his tenure. The
meeting focused on two critical management priorities: collaboration and active
client engagement. Much of the legal
work in the office of the General Counsel cuts across the entire
Department. The offsite was an
excellent opportunity for attorneys to work collaboratively – breaking down the
institutional barriers. Client
engagement early in the development of a new project allows attorneys to
provide timely, high quality legal advice that helps the bureau or Department
achieve its goal.
Deputy General Counsel Geovette Washington, along with Deputy General Counsel for Strategic Initiatives Quentin Palfrey presented OGC’s goals and priorities. This presentation highlighted ways in which OGC strives to:
- Make a lasting impact on rules for commerce that help restart and revitalize the economy and lay a foundation for sustainable US leadership in a global economy.
- Build a culture of excellence, service, and creative collaboration in the Office of General Counsel and across the Department.
- Support and protect the Administration and the Secretary of Commerce.