Women's History Month
“I was inspired by my sister, step-daughter, nieces, as well as all the women I had encouraged to push for their own advancement.”
What attracted you to the practice of law and what aspect of your practice do you enjoy the most?
My attraction to the law began with my love for government and politics as a young teenager, but grew into loving the idea of impacting justice through advocacy. I love two parts of my practice on equal footing — strategizing with clients on thorny issues about a litigation or business issue, and mentoring the next generation of lawyers.
Tell us about a professional goal you are proud of achieving, and what (or who) inspired you to go for it.
The biggest challenge of my career was the decision to change firms after more than two decades at another firm where I held senior leadership roles. I was heavily nudged to do so by my husband, who believed I had not expanded my wings to my full potential. I was inspired by my sister, step-daughter, nieces, as well as all the women I had encouraged to push for their own advancement.
What is the most memorable deal you led and what made it so memorable?
I have been privileged to work on a number of impactful and large mass torts litigations, but the most memorable was the Gadolinium multidistrict litigation in the Northern District of Ohio (MDL 1909), in which I served as lead national counsel on behalf of the largest defendant in the MDL. It was where I met and worked side by side with my future colleagues from Sidley, which then led me to joining Sidley several years later.
On a personal note, what is your go-to self-care activity?
I love to go cycling outdoors and walk on the beach with my dog and my husband.
Can you share with us a saying or quote that gives you inspiration or helps you stay centered?
“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any” (Alice Walker).