Veta T. Richardson Photo by John Abbott Photography
This is always my favorite issue of Diversity & the Bar® each year, because MCCA profiles the corporations and law firms who are advancing the profession through their diversity leadership. This year, one corporate general counsel stood out as a leader among leaders: Gary Kennedy and his law department at American Airlines have been working hard as advocates for diversity. Although earning recognition was not their reason for doing so, it sure feels good to see them receive lots of well–deserved accolades. MCCA salutes Gary and his team at American, as well as all of the Employers of Choice and Sager Award winners. Great work!
MCCA also congratulates an important new voice in the diversity community —Jill Lynch Cruz, who recently co–authored a ground–breaking research report for the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) on the experience of Latinas in the profession.What I find particularly commendable is that Jill volunteered hundreds of hours of her time over more than nine months, all the while juggling graduate studies and family responsibilities. Jill recaps the HNBA report’s findings in a feature article you won’t want to miss. MCCA commends Jill and Melinda Molina, the report’s co–author, as well as HNBA leaders Ramona Romero, Dolores Atencio, and Clarissa Cerda for their diligent work to publish this important resource.
In this issue, MCCA also spotlights several of the nation’s top rainmakers. These outstanding lawyers demonstrate that even in difficult economic times, they have what it takes to retain current clients, while expanding and cultivating new business relationships through exemplary client service. Their advice offers important lessons for all of us. DB
Veta T. Richardson
From the November/December 2009 issue of Diversity & The Bar®