Why have you chosen to make your career at Husch Blackwell?
I have been with the firm since I was a summer associate. Because I had seven years of professional experience between undergraduate and law school, I started out in a different place in some ways. I feel like I was given as many challenges and opportunities as I was willing to pursue – and always while feeling supported and nurtured. I made partner right when my midsize, regional firm merged with Husch Blackwell. The merger has been nothing but positive; it’s created an incredible platform for my practice. I have such a deep bench of expertise I can draw from all around the country. Also, the firm is filled with wonderful people who are super smart, work really hard but don’t take themselves too seriously, and are passionate about things outside the office. I believe that the more people you know like that the better.
What is one thing that makes Husch Blackwell special?
The constant desire to be better. We are open to change, taking risks and growing.
Is there a recent achievement you found particularly rewarding?
I’ve been working hard over the past several years at putting together a really great team. It’s such a wonderful thing to work with earlier-career associates who are coming into a field that I love – and to watch them develop and help them see their path to success at the firm, all while serving our clients in a fantastic way. Things are really gelling.
Describe the mentoring and coaching support you have received at Husch Blackwell.
I receive mentoring all the time. I don’t think there’s an end to it – you’re never fully formed in this profession. You’re constantly learning, growing and developing. That means that I still look to people who have more experience in terms of knowledge and content but also in terms of how to build a successful practice, how to lead diverse teams, how to juggle it all while raising a family and trying to keep the house clean. I continue to build new relationships as my needs develop, and deepen old relationships. These relationships are a huge part of any success I’ve achieved.
What opportunities have you had to become involved in firm leadership?
I’ve been involved in recruiting since I was a second-year associate and have spent the last two years serving as firm-wide hiring partner. It’s been such a pleasure getting to know people involved in recruiting across the firm and playing a part in hiring the young attorneys who will shape the future of the firm. I’m at a point, however, where I’m ready to learn more. The opportunity to become the next Milwaukee office managing partner arose and it seemed like a great fit for me. I care a lot about how people feel about coming to work here. I’m excited to be in a position to make this the best place it can be for all personnel. Also, my job as an economic development attorney has been to help people build the city, so being the representative for the firm in Milwaukee is something that really excites me. I’m thrilled to be stepping into this new role.
What is your advice for a new hire?
This is not a career you go at alone. The best thing you can do is be committed to the team, and that team might be the partners you work for, your clients, your legal assistants or the firm at large. It might mean getting involved in committees and connecting with people outside your standard workday. The way you succeed is by your commitment to the team – pushing the collective goal forward at all times.