Speaking and Presenting: Conversation Starters

Patrick Barry is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Law and the Director of Digital Academic Initiatives at the University of Michigan Law School. He also serves as a visiting lecturer at the University of Chicago Law School and UCLA School of Law. His research interests encompass persuasion, creativity, team dynamics, and the implications of artificial intelligence in legal contexts.Barry has received numerous teaching awards, including the Wayne Booth Prize for Excellence in Teaching and the Provost’s Innovation in Teaching Prize. He is also recognized for his mentorship, having received the Outstanding Research Mentor Award. His contributions to education include creating a series of online courses on platforms like Coursera, focusing on effective communication and feedback in professional settings.An accomplished author, Barry has written 11 books, including Good with Words: Writing and Editing and Feedback Loops: How to Give and Receive High-Quality Feedback. He has been involved in various initiatives, such as Clinnect, a global network aimed at combating human trafficking through legal clinics.Barry holds a J.D. from the University of Chicago, where he was a member of the Law Review, and a Ph.D. in English from the University of Michigan, focusing on the theatrical aspects of Supreme Court confirmation hearings. His diverse background includes experience as an All-American soccer player and a member of the California Bar.In his teaching, Barry emphasizes practical skills for law students, preparing them for effective advocacy in an increasingly complex legal landscape. His courses include "AI for Lawyers" series and "Feedback Loops," which aim to enhance communication skills essential for legal professionals. Through his research and outreach efforts, Patrick Barry continues to influence legal education and practice significantly.