Describe your career trajectory.
I started my law practice at a firm that one of my mentors had newly joined, returning to the practice of law with a desire to help hospices after she had run a local hospice nonprofit. Slowly but surely, the hospice practice, which I joined at inception, expanded nationally. When my mentor retired, I succeeded her as team leader. I was passionate about our clients’ missions to provide comfort through end of life, and because there was tremendous growth potential, the practice flourished.
Why did you choose to move your practice to Husch Blackwell?
I could see what loomed on the horizon for these clients. In the next five years, their circumstances would be very different. This meant that the hospice team needed additional talents and knowledge bases in order to successfully guide them through the next phase of their growth. After practicing at my firm for 20 years, it was time to relocate the practice and team to a firm that could meet our clients’ changing requirements.
While I talked to many firms, it became very apparent that Husch Blackwell’s culture and national footprint were a good fit. It had an open and supportive environment, and attracted kind people who came together because they valued diversity of thought and building relationships. During my first year at the firm, more than 100 lawyers served these hospice clients, enabling us to be there for them in expanded ways.
What is one thing that makes Husch Blackwell special?
We honor our culture by the decisions we make.
Because we understand that we won’t grow without taking informed risks, we embrace proactive versus reactive decision-making. We invest in people because we’re confident the work will come, rather than not do so because we don’t have the work right now. Ideas are supported, but no one has to go it alone to bring them to life. Our new Psychedelics & Emerging Therapies practice is a perfect example of this.
How has Husch Blackwell supported you in achieving work/life balance?
Balance evolves as your career evolves. As my role on my team has changed, so too have my responsibilities. Technology has also impacted expectations. I have integrated work into my life and have embraced the positive side of working from anywhere in such a way that it’s not taxing to me.
Also, leadership tells us that we’re valued and thanks us for working hard, which adds to this feeling. I’m a partner who needs to hear that I’m appreciated just as much as a younger associate needs to hear it. No matter how old you are or how many years of experience you have, you need a cheerleader.
What is your advice for a new hire?
It’s safe to be who you are here, so share your authentic self and gifts with your coworkers. People sometimes think lawyers need to be a certain way, but everyone here is different. I draw and paint, and others are encouraged by that. Our interests outside the office are even included in our bios. When you feel supported by your culture, you are happier and do your job better. Life is finite, so live joyfully.