Michael Gollin ’78

Michael died Nov. 20, 2017, at his home after a five-year battle with ALS. He has left scores of family and friends inspired by his intelligence, enthusiasm, generosity, humor, and courage.

After majoring in biochemistry at Princeton, Michael earned a master’s degree in biology from the University of Zurich and a law degree from Boston University. He spent his career in intellectual-property law, ultimately chairing the life-sciences group at Venable in Washington, D.C., and worked throughout his life for the betterment of others. As a law student, Michael co-founded the Public Interest Project, which continues to support students pursuing pro bono opportunities. Later, he founded Public Interest Intellectual Property Advisors, a nonprofit that promotes health, agriculture, biodiversity, and culture in developing countries by arranging pro bono intellectual-property legal services.

Michael’s zeal for life and commitment to others carried into his response to his ALS diagnosis. In addition to a bucket list of travel and other adventures with family and friends, he reflected on life and mortality in a blog: http://innovationlifelove.org. And he used his own experiences with ALS to contribute to a better understanding of the causes of and responses to the disease. In 2015, Michael was named the ALS Association Rasmussen Advocate of the Year.

Michael is survived by his wife, Jill Dickey; children Natasha, Max ’16, and Julia; parents Richard and Rita; siblings Kathy Gollin Marshak and Jim Gollin ’80; and their spouses and children.

Michael kept his wit and generosity until the end, writing just before his death, “Remember me kindly but honestly when I am gone. It is OK. Really.”