NEW YORK, NY - The International Trademark Association (INTA) welcomed Heather Steinmeyer as the 2010 President of the Association.

According to the Association, Steinmeyer, who lives and works in Chicago, Illinois, USA, is responsible for protection and development of trademarks and other corporate Intellectual Property processes and assets at WellPoint Inc.

Before joining WellPoint Inc., Steinmeyer served as Senior Brand Counsel for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, and as a partner with the firm of Bell, Boyd and Lloyd (now K&L Gates) in Chicago, where she focused on competition law and intellectual property prosecution, licensing and litigation.

“This year, the entire trademark community is committed to protecting brands as they face new challenges, especially on the Internet, and I’m honored to lead INTA’s efforts in 2010. As stewards of trademarks, we are responsible for preserving the relationships in the marketplace that guarantee quality and value, and we look forward to participating in the policy development process that puts consumers and businesses first,” said Steinmeyer.

Prior to serving her current term as INTA President Elect, Steinmeyer served as treasurer and chair of the Finance Committee in 2006 and was Vice President in 2007 – 2008, a member of the Board of Directors from 2002 – 2004 and has served on various committees and project teams.

Steinmeyer also led the Task Force on the Internationalization of INTA Publications, appointed in 2005 to explore ways in which INTA can become a provider of choice for world-class trademark publications to non-U.S. audiences.

Also taking office in 2010 are: Gerhard R. Bauer, Daimler AG (President Elect); Gregg Marrazzo, Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. (Vice President); Toe Su Aung, BATMark Limited (Vice President); Bret Parker, Pfizer (Treasurer); Mei-lan Stark, Fox Entertainment Group (Secretary); and Dale Cendali, Kirkland & Ellis LLP, counsel to INTA.

The International Trademark Association (INTA) is a worldwide association of member companies and firms that support and advance trademarks and Intellectual Property as elements of fair and effective global commerce.

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