What are your proudest accomplishments in the area of diversity and inclusion in law? My proudest accomplishments are the many successful women, lawyers of color and LGBTQ+ lawyers and law students I have mentored, and for whom I have opened doors over the years. Some are now my partners and some are partners in other top law firms. Some are general counsel and senior in-house lawyers. Some now work in government agencies and in other public service positions. I believe I made a difference for them, and that they would say the same. Also, there have been so many over the 40+ years I have been in practice that I believe my legacy will be that I have by now made a difference in the New York legal community.

What are the greatest diversity and inclusion-related challenges today for New York lawyers and firms? The biggest challenge is to take inclusivity to the next level. Women partners should be closer to 50%, and the number of women in leadership roles should be higher, too. The same is true for other types of diversity. That has been the case for more than 15 years, so it might require more profound changes within firms in terms of allocation of work, credit and compensation as well as clearer, supported pipelines to partnership and leadership. Additional metrics for success might be needed, and more male allies and mentors from among leaders of firms.

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