The Top 100 Lawyers of 2022 (Complete)

Alumni Spotlight is pleased to announce The Top 100 Lawyers of 2022. Now, more than ever, is an important time to celebrate the dedication, skill, and hard work of lawyers across the country. These individuals are champions to the rule of law and defend fundamental rights of individuals and corporations alike. They practice in a variety of fields including real estate, immigration, corporate, environmental, and litigation law. There’s no denying that law is a complicated business but these awardees have the initiative, drive, creativity, and legal mind that sets them apart from the rest.

Awardees include Jennifer Yeh, Senior Attorney for The Standard, who defends the company with respect to nationwide employee benefits litigation; Lindsay Leifeste, Senior Attorney with Old Republic Title, who assists with providing a smooth closing process for commercial real estate and has been part of the closing in more than $425 million in commercial real estate transactions since mid-2019; and Rich George, Senior Attorney for Portland General Electric, who represents the company in renewable energy matters.

Congratulations to this year’s prestigious awardees. Please join us in celebrating the achievements of The Top 100 Lawyers of 2022.

 

1. Rich George
Senior Attorney, Portland General Electric
Stanford University

Rich George is a Senior Attorney for Portland General Electric. He first joined the company in 2001. For more than 125 years, Portland General Electric has been powering their community and helping connect Oregonians to what matters most to them. Today, they’re focused on delivering energy that is safe, clean, reliable, affordable, and secure. Their world and industry are faced with new and exciting challenges driven by evolving technology, changing customer expectations, and a shared desire for a cleaner energy future.

Previously, George was an associate at Preston Gates & Ellis and before that, an honors attorney at the Oregon Department of Justice. George earned a JD from the University of Oregon School of Law and an undergraduate degree in human biology from Stanford University.

 

2. Steven Loi
Senior Attorney, Paramount Pictures
University of California, Los Angeles

Steven Loi is a Senior Attorney with Paramount Pictures. Founded in 1912, Paramount Pictures works with the entertainment industry’s biggest filmmakers and brightest stars to produce and distribute entertainment around the world. The iconic Paramount logo has opened some of the most successful and beloved films in cinematic history. Loi has over 15 years of experience. He began his career in 2007.

Before joining Paramount Pictures, Loi was an associate at Walsworth - WFBM and before that, an associate at Sanders Roberts & Jewett. Earlier in his career he worked with Latham & Watkins in business development. Loi graduated from Whittier Law School with a JD and from the University of California, Los Angeles with an undergraduate degree in economics.

 

3. Kevin Zuzolo
Attorney, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld
Cornell University

Kevin Zuzolo is an Attorney with Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld. He first joined the company in 2016. Akin Gump is a global law firm with more than 900 lawyers and advisors who pride themselves on dedication to their clients and their communities. With 20 offices worldwide, Akin is renowned for numerous market-leading practices; its strengths in complex transactions and restructurings, high-stakes litigation, and public policy and regulatory matters; and its unyielding pro bono commitment. Driven by its forward-thinking leadership, the firm has built a strong culture of innovation and collaboration as well as a talented and diverse workforce committed to the success of its clients and each other.

Previously, Zuzolo was an attorney with Otterbourg. Zuzolo earned a JD from Brooklyn Law School, a Master of Law in taxation from New York University School of Law, and an undergraduate degree from Cornell University.

 

4. Peter Tessler
Attorney, American Tower
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

Peter Tessler began his professional career over 22 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with American Tower. American Tower is a Fortune 500, S&P 500, and Forbes Global 2000 company that provides the infrastructure for modern digital communications. Starting in 1995 with 2,700 towers, their global portfolio today includes over 220,000 owned or managed sites around the globe. Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, they have operations throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. They've experienced exceptional growth over the past decade and their outlook for the future is just as strong.

Tessler first got his start in 2000 in web hosting operations and internet support at RCN. From there, he went on to Premiere Global Services before eventually rising to become a site development specialist at SAC Wireless, his most recent position prior to joining American Tower. Tessler graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law with a JD and from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale with an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

5. Jason Lee
Attorney, Kim & Chang
University of California, Irvine

Jason Lee is an Attorney for Kim & Chang. He first joined the firm in 2012. Kim & Chang is Korea’s largest and most specialized law firm with a premier global practice. Since 1973, they continue to advise the world’s leading companies and financial institutions. Based in Seoul, they are a full-service law firm with over 1,500 dedicated professionals, including Korean, Chinese, American, French, British, and other European-licensed lawyers, tax lawyers, patent and trademark attorneys, accountants, and other subject matter and industry experts.

Previously, Lee was an associate at Schulte Roth & Zabel and before that, an associate at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett. Earlier in his career, he worked with Salomon Smith Barney as an associate for investment banking. Lee earned a JD from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, and an undergraduate degree in political science from the University of California, Irvine.

 

6. Tom Hastings
Attorney Advisor, Federal Communications Commission
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Tom Hastings is an Attorney Advisor for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC is an independent United States government agency established by the Communications Act of 1934. They are charged with regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. Hastings has over 17 years of experience. He began his career in 2005.

Before joining the FCC, Hastings was an associate at Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, and before that, a regulatory associate at Omnispace. Earlier in his career, he worked with Content House as an executive. Hastings graduated from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law with a JD and from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with an undergraduate degree in economics.

 

7. James Dvorak
Attorney, Venable
University of Virginia

James Dvorak is an Attorney with Venable. He first joined the company in 1997. Venable is a network of trusted advisors serving businesses, organizations, and individuals in many of the most important aspects of their work. With more than 850 professionals delivering services around the world, Venable is helping its clients connect quickly and effectively to the experience, insights, and advice they need to achieve their most pressing objectives. Cultivated over 120 years, Venable’s capabilities span virtually every industry and all areas of regulatory and government affairs, corporate and business law, intellectual property, and complex litigation.

Dvorak earned a JD, an MA in history, and an undergraduate degree in history and religious studies from the University of Virginia.

 

8. Zachary Jordan
Senior Staff Attorney, CME Group
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Zachary Jordan began his professional career over 13 years ago. Today, he is a Senior Staff Attorney for CME Group. As the world's leading derivatives marketplace, CME Group exchanges offer the widest range of global benchmark products across all major asset classes, including futures and options based on interest rates, equity indexes, foreign exchange, energy, agricultural commodities, metals, weather, and real estate. CME Group brings buyers and sellers together through its CME Globex® electronic trading platform and its trading facilities in New York and Chicago.

Jordan first got his start in 2009 as a technical services associate at the University of Wisconsin Law Library. From there, he went on to the Chicago Legal Clinic, his most recent position prior to joining CME Group. Jordan graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law with a JD and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with an undergraduate degree in history and legal studies.

 

9. Kumar Ravula
Patent Attorney, Latham & Watkins
Duke University

Kumar Ravula is a Patent Attorney with Latham & Watkins. He first joined the firm in 2018. Latham & Watkins is a global law firm with more than 3,000 lawyers in its offices located in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. The firm has internationally recognized practices in a wide spectrum of transactional, litigation, corporate, and regulatory areas. Their success is grounded in their devotion to the collaborative process, which reaches across global offices and practices and draws upon their deep subject matter expertise, an abiding commitment to teamwork, and a powerful tradition of creative lawyering.

Previously, Ravula was a patent attorney with Banner & Witcoff. Ravula earned a JD from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law and an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from Duke University.

 

10. David Medina
Lawyer, Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe
Stanford University

David Medina began his professional career over 15 years ago. Today, he is a Lawyer with Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe. Orrick is a global law firm focused on serving in technology & innovation, energy & infrastructure, and finance sectors. The firm advises on transactions, litigation and regulatory matters for venture-backed companies, public companies, E&I funds, financial institutions, and governments. In 2019, Orrick became one of five founding law firms in the Diversity Lab’s Move the Needle Fund 15. A five-year effort that will apply research-backed methods, the initiative brings together corporate legal departments, law firms, and community leaders to help accelerate meaningful change in the legal profession through measurable goals.

Medina first got his start in 2006 as a founder and CEO at Flashworks Inc. From there, he went on to m-Via, before eventually moving on to become a lawyer at Panasonic, his most recent position prior to joining Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe. Medina graduated from Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law with a JD in intellectual property and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in management science and engineering.

 

11. David Dudley
Enforcement Attorney, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
University of Michigan

David Dudley is an Enforcement Attorney with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat individuals fairly. Dudley has over 23 years of experience. He began his career in 1999

Before joining the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Dudley was an assistant attorney general for the Wisconsin Department of Justice and before that, a staff attorney for competition, healthcare products, and services at the Federal Trade Commission. Earlier in his career he worked with Arnold & Porter as an associate. Dudley graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a JD and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in accounting and finance.

 

12. Kelsey Colvin
Senior Corporate Attorney, LG&E and KU Energy
Stanford University

Kelsey Colvin began her professional career over 14 years ago. Today, she is a Senior Corporate Attorney with Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company (LG&E and KU Energy), part of the PPL Corporation family of companies. LG&E and KU Energy are regulated utilities that serve a total of 1.2 million customers and have consistently ranked among the best companies for customer service in the United States. With a combined generating capacity of over 8,000 MW serving customers throughout 5,500 square miles, LG&E and KU are positioned to provide reliable, safe, and competitively priced energy to their customers.

Colvin first got her start in 2008 as a regional energy policy manager at Puget Sound Energy. From there, she went on to Midwest ISO, before eventually rising to become a senior counsel at NiSource, her most recent position prior to joining LG&E and KU Energy. Colvin graduated from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law with a JD, from Stanford University with an MA in communications and journalism, and from Indiana University Bloomington with an undergraduate degree in comparative literature.

 

13. Jennifer Yeh
Senior Attorney, The Standard
Duke University

Jennifer Yeh is a Senior Attorney with The Standard. She first joined the company in 2016. The Standard is a leading provider of financial products and services. Yeh is responsible for defending the company with respect to nationwide employee benefits litigation. She also provides early case assessments and resolutions for litigation and pre-litigation matters, as well as legal advice to the business on issues related to group policy interpretation and/or implementation and corporate strategies and initiatives.

Previously, Yeh was an associate general counsel at Cambia Health Solutions and before that, a corporate counsel at MetLife. Earlier in her career, she worked with King & Spalding as an associate for business litigation. Yeh earned a JD from New York University School of Law and an undergraduate degree in history from Duke University.

 

14. Hilla Shimshoni
Senior Attorney, Alston & Bird
Georgetown University

Hilla Shimshoni is a Senior Attorney with Alston & Bird. Alston & Bird is an international law firm with over 800 lawyers in 13 offices throughout the U.S., Europe, the UK, and Asia. The firm provides legal services to both domestic and international clients who conduct business worldwide. Its core practices include intellectual property, complex litigation, corporate and tax, with national industry focusing on energy and sustainability, health care, financial services, and public policy. Alston & Bird has advised companies including Amazon, The Coca-Cola Company, Microsoft, Bank of America, Starbucks, Toyota, Dell, UPS, and Nokia. Shimshoni has nearly 19 years of experience. She began her career in 2003.

Before joining Alston & Bird, Shimshoni was an associate at Lowenstein Sandler and before that, an analyst at Compass Lexecon. Earlier in her career she worked with Israel Defense Forces as an analyst. Shimshoni graduated from Georgetown University with a JD and from Brandeis University with an undergraduate degree in political science and government.

 

15. Andrea Stover
Energy Regulatory Lawyer & Partner, Baker Botts
University of Texas at Austin

Andrea Stover is an Energy Regulatory Lawyer and Partner of Baker Botts. Headquartered in Downtown Houston, Texas, Baker Botts is an international law firm of approximately 725 lawyers practicing throughout a network of offices around the globe. Based on the firm’s experience and knowledge of its clients' industries, it is recognized as a leading firm in the energy, technology, and life sciences sectors. Since 1840, Baker Botts has provided creative and effective legal solutions for its clients while demonstrating an unrelenting commitment to excellence. Stover has over 17 years in the law practice industry. She began her career in 2004.

Before joining Baker Botts, Stover was an energy regulatory attorney at Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody. Earlier in her career she worked with Morgan, Lewis & Bockius as an energy attorney. Stover graduated from American University Washington College of Law with a JD, and from the University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in government.

 

16. Lindsay Leifeste
Attorney, Old Republic Title
Northwestern University

Lindsay Leifeste is an Attorney for Old Republic Title. Old Republic Title is one of the largest title insurance groups in the United States. They operate through a national network of company-owned offices, affiliates, authorized agents, and approved attorneys, which allows them to service their customers in both large and small markets across the country. Leifeste has over 13 years of experience. She began her career in 2009.

Before joining Old Republic Title, Leifeste was a senior associate attorney at Plunkett, Griesenbeck & Mimari, and before that, an associate attorney at Armbrecht Jackson. Earlier in her career she worked with the Gannett Company as a multimedia news producer. Leifeste graduated from Mercer University Walter F. George School of Law with a JD and from Northwestern University with an undergraduate degree in journalism.

 

17. Marisa Chaves
Senior Attorney, Morgan Lewis & Bockius
The University of Texas at Austin

Marisa Chaves began her professional career over 23 years ago. Today, she is a Senior Attorney with Morgan Lewis & Bockius. Morgan Lewis is recognized for exceptional client service, legal innovation, and commitment to its communities. Their global depth reaches across North America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, with the collaboration of more than 2,200 lawyers and specialists who provide elite legal services across industry sectors for multinational corporations to startups around the world.

Chaves first got her start in 1999 as a litigation assistant at Scott, Douglas, & McConnico. From there, she went on to Crosby & Rowell before eventually rising to become a senior counsel at Vasquez Estrada & Conway, her most recent position prior to joining Morgan Lewis & Bockius. Chaves graduated from Boston University School of Law with a JD and from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

18. Rick Ogle
Senior Attorney, EOG Resources
Georgetown University

Rick Ogle is a Senior Attorney with EOG Resources. EOG Resources engages in the exploration, development, production, and marketing of crude oil and natural gas. It operates through the United States, Trinidad, and other international segments. The company was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

Previously, Ogle was an assistant general counsel at Southwestern Energy and before that, a legal associate at Norton Rose Fulbright. Earlier in his career, he worked with Union Texas Petroleum as an attorney. Ogle earned a JD from the University of Houston Law Center and an undergraduate degree in international economics from Georgetown University.

 

19. Jill Ottenberg
Knowledge Lawyer, Hogan Lovells
Northwestern University

Jill Ottenberg is a Knowledge Lawyer for Hogan Lovells. Hogan Lovells offers extensive experience and insights gained from working in some of the world's most complex legal environments and markets for corporations, financial institutions, and governments. Ottenberg has over 19 years of experience. He began his career in 2003.

Before joining Hogan Lovells, Ottenberg was an associate for global regulatory enforcement at Reed Smith, and before that, a litigation associate at Dewey & LeBoeuf. Earlier in his career he worked with the United States Attorney's Office Criminal Division as a paralegal specialist. Ottenberg graduated from Fordham University School of Law with a JD and from Northwestern University with an undergraduate degree in history.

 

20. Rayo Antonio
Conflicts Attorney, O'Melveny & Myers
University of California, Los Angeles

Rayo Antonio is a Conflicts Attorney with O'Melveny & Myers. He first joined the company in 2016 as a file release manager. O’Melveny, a global law firm with 18 offices, is home to a talented team of more than 750 lawyers who help clients grow, protect their assets, and navigate the challenges of complex law and regulation. A combination of sophisticated legal and business counseling and impeccable service has made the firm counsel of choice to an ever-growing list of market leaders, creating opportunities for its people to engage in the most challenging and exciting work.

Previously, Antonio was an associate attorney at Glancy Prongay & Murray. Antonio earned a JD from the University of Washington School of Law, a Master of Law in intellectual property from Santa Clara University School of Law, and an undergraduate degree in business economics from the University of California, Los Angeles.

 

21. Casey McCracken
Attorney, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher
Stanford University

Casey McCracken began his professional career over 11 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with Gibson Dunn & Crutcher. Gibson Dunn is a multinational law firm headquartered in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1890, the firm includes approximately 1,500 attorneys and 1,000 staff located in 20 offices around the world, including the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm is known for its litigation practice, and in particular its strength in appellate law.

McCracken graduated from Stanford Law School with a JD and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in mathematics and economics.

 

22. Rachel Cohen
Attorney, Greenberg Traurig
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Rachel Cohen is an Attorney with Greenberg Traurig. She first joined the firm in 2005. Greenberg Traurig has more than 2,400 attorneys in 43 locations in the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm, often recognized for its focus on philanthropic giving, innovation, diversity, and pro bono work, reported gross revenue of over $2 Billion for FY 2021. The firm is consistently among the top firms on the Am Law 100, Am Law Global 100, NLJ 250, and Law360 (US) 400. On the debut 2022 Law360 Pulse Leaderboard, it is a Top 15 firm.

Cohen earned a JD from the University of Illinois College of Law and an undergraduate degree in finance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

 

23. Sale Kwon
Attorney, Cooley
Stanford University

Sale Kwon began his professional career over 14 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with Cooley. Clients partner with Cooley on transformative deals, complex IP and regulatory matters, and high-stakes litigation, where innovation meets the law. Cooley has 1,500 lawyers across 17 offices in the United States, Asia, and Europe.

Kwon first got his start in 2008 as an associate at Cooley Godward Kronish. From there, he went on to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration in the Republic of Korea, before eventually rising to become a judge advocate officer. Kwon graduated from Stanford University with a JD, an MA in sociology, and an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

24. Jeff Stepner
Managing Attorney, State Auto Insurance
Miami University

Jeff Stepner began his professional career over 25 years ago. Today, he is a Managing Attorney for State Auto Insurance. Since 1921, State Auto has grown from just $15,000 in assets to a $3 billion organization. The company offers auto, home, and various other insurance policies in 28 states.

Stepner first got his start in 1997 as a partner with Adams, Stepner, Woltermann & Dusing. Stepner graduated from the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law with a graduate degree and from Miami University with an undergraduate degree in business administration.

 

25. Ariel Fliman
Attorney, Weil Gotshal & Manges
Northwestern University

Ariel Fliman is an Attorney with Weil Gotshal & Manges. Founded in 1931, Weil, Gotshal & Manges has been a preeminent provider of legal services for the past 90 years. With approximately 1,100 lawyers in offices on three continents, Weil has been a pioneer in establishing a geographic footprint that has allowed the firm to partner with clients wherever they do business. The firm’s four departments including corporate, litigation, restructuring and tax, executive compensation and benefits, and more than two dozen practice groups are consistently recognized as leaders in their respective fields.

Previously, Fliman was an attorney for product development at QBE North America and before that he co-founded A&B American Style where he served as the general counsel. Earlier in his career, he worked as an associate editor. Fliman earned a JD in law from Emory University School of Law and an undergraduate degree in business administration from Northwestern University.

 

26. Drilona Breçani
Senior Associate Attorney, Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP
Georgetown University

Drilona Breçani is a Senior Associate Attorney at Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP in their New York City office. With 56 offices located around the globe, Fragomen is the premier and largest immigration law firm in the world. Founded in 1951, Fragomen represents a broad range of companies, organizations, and individuals to facilitate the transfer of employees worldwide. Fragomen’s services include: immigration compliance services, corporate immigration program development, immigration work permit and business visa services, consular services, employment verification services, and government advisory services. An Am Law 100 and Global 100 firm, Fragomen’s professionals are respected thought leaders in the immigration field. The firm employs more than 4,300 immigration professionals and support staff across the Americas, Asia Pacific, and EMEA. Fragomen has been recognized as 2022 “Law Firm of the Year” for Immigration Law.

Drilona is admitted to the Bar in New York and joined Fragomen in 2017 where she currently represents multinational corporate clients in the financial services industry on all aspects of corporate U.S. immigration, including nonimmigrant visas, permanent residence, immigration compliance and immigration program management. Previously, Drilona was an Associate Attorney - Manager at EY Law LLP affiliated with Ernst & Young LLP in Canada and an Associate Attorney at Jeffries & Corigliano LLP, a boutique immigration firm in New York City. Drilona earned a JD from The Pennsylvania State University Dickinson School of Law and an undergraduate degree in Political Science and Italian from Georgetown University. During law school Drilona worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and prior to law school, Drilona was a litigation paralegal with Dechert LLP and Merrill Lynch. Drilona was born and raised in Albania and is fluent in English, Albanian, and Italian.

 

27. Alex Obrecht
Energy & Regulatory Attorney, Baker & Hostetler
Harvard University

Alex Obrecht is an Energy & Regulatory Attorney for Baker & Hostetler. He first joined the company in 2014. Recognized as one of the top firms for client service and quality of legal services, BakerHostetler is a leading law firm that helps clients around the world address their most complex and critical business and regulatory issues. With six core practice groups including business, digital assets and data management, intellectual property, labor and employment, litigation, and tax, the firm has lawyers in offices coast to coast, serving clients across the United States and in more than 100 countries. Founded in 1916, the firm now has more than 1,000 attorneys contributing to the success of its clients.

Previously, Obrecht was a judicial law clerk at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. Earlier in his career he worked with Credit Suisse as an analyst. Obrecht earned a JD from the University of Wyoming College of Law and an undergraduate degree in economics from Harvard University.

 

28. Theodore Edelman
Lawyer, Sullivan & Cromwell
Columbia University in the City of New York

Theodore Edelman is a Lawyer with Sullivan & Cromwell. Sullivan & Cromwell (S&C) provides the highest quality legal advice and representation to clients around the world. The results they achieve have set them apart for more than 140 years and become a model for the modern practice of law. Today, S&C is a leader in each of its core practice areas and in each of its geographic markets. S&C comprises approximately 875 lawyers. They serve clients around the world through a network of 13 offices located in leading financial centers in Asia, Australia, Europe, and the United States. Edelman has over 39 years of experience. He began his career in 1983.

Before joining S&C, Edelman was a judicial law clerk for Honorable Robert J. Ward. Edelman graduated from Harvard Law School with a JD and from Columbia University in the City of New York with an undergraduate degree in political science and government.

 

29. Josh Ludmir
Attorney, Greenberg Traurig
Harvard University

Josh Ludmir is an Attorney with Greenberg Traurig. Greenberg Traurig has more than 2,400 attorneys in 43 locations in the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm, often recognized for its focus on philanthropic giving, innovation, diversity and pro bono work, reported gross revenue of over $2 Billion for FY 2021. The firm is consistently among the top firms. Ludmir has over 14 years of experience. He began his career in 2008.

Before joining Greenberg Traurig, Ludmir was a VP of business and legal affairs at Participant Media. Earlier in his career he worked with Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy as an associate. Ludmir graduated from the University of Michigan Law School with a JD and from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree.

 

30. Sara Slavin
Intellectual Property Attorney, Mayer Brown
Harvard University

Sara Slavin is an Intellectual Property Attorney with Mayer Brown. She first joined the firm in 2019. Mayer Brown is uniquely positioned to advise the world’s leading companies and financial institutions on their most complex deals and disputes. With an extensive reach across four continents, they are the only integrated law firm in the world with approximately 200 lawyers in each of the world’s three largest financial centers, New York, London and Hong Kong. They have deep experience in high-stakes litigation and complex transactions across industry sectors, including their signature strength, the global financial services industry.

Previously, Slavin was an associate at Loeb & Loeb and before that a law clerk to the Honorable Bruce M. Selya in the U.S. Courts of Appeals, First Circuit. Earlier in her career she worked with Goldman Sachs as a legal analyst. Slavin earned a JD and an undergraduate degree in psychology from Harvard University.

 

31. Amanda Cefalu
Attorney and Shareholder, Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c.
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Amanda Cefalu is an Attorney and Shareholder with Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. At Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, they know that every trusted relationship begins with understanding. Their attorneys take the time to listen critically, learn the unique attributes of each client’s business, and work together to build a foundation for success that goes beyond providing legal services. While doing so, they draw upon an exceptionally broad base of experience and a deep knowledge of the industries and sectors they serve. Cefalu has over 13 years of experience. She began her career in 2009.

Before joining Kutak Rock, Cefalu was an attorney at Kutak Rock and before that, a partner and attorney at Anderson, Helgen, Davis & Cefalu. Cefalu graduated from the University of Minnesota Law School with a JD and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with an undergraduate degree in philosophy and political science.

 

32. Kevin Passerini
Lawyer, Blank Rome LLP
University of Virginia

Kevin Passerini is a partner in the Labor & Employment Practice Group at Blank Rome LLP. Passerini received an undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia in 2002 and a JD from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 2006. Over the last 15 years at Blank Rome, Passerini has built a strong practice focused on the protection of trade secrets, the implementation and enforcement of restrictive covenants in the employment and M&A contexts, lateral recruiting, and disputes between competitors arising out of corporate raiding and other forms of unfair competition. Passerini has served as a Career Development Advisor to multiple associates and regularly comments on legal developments, including publications in Bloomberg Law, Law360, The Legal Intelligencer, and the Employee Benefit Plan Review, among others, and frequent seminar and webinar presentations.

Blank Rome is an Am Law 100 firm with 14 offices and more than 600 attorneys and principals who provide comprehensive legal and advocacy services to clients operating in the U.S. and around the world. Blank Rome’s professionals have built a reputation for their leading knowledge and experience across a spectrum of industries. Since its inception, Blank Rome’s culture has been dedicated to providing top-level service to clients and has been rooted in the strength of its diversity and inclusion initiatives, and it has long been recognized for its pro bono commitments.

 

33. Brant Dveirin
Attorney & Partner, Lewis Brisbois
University of California, Los Angeles

Brant Dveirin began his professional career over 34 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney and Partner with Lewis Brisbois. Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith is a U.S. law firm headquartered in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1979, the firm is a national, full-service law firm with approximately 1,600 attorneys. The firm operates offices in 54 cities and 30 states and Washington, DC. Lewis Brisbois’ national practice is sophisticated, multi-faceted, and well-versed in current legal trends, while its individual state practices provide vast resources and knowledge of procedural and legal nuances.

Dveirin first got his start in 1987 as an associate at Best Best & Krieger. From there, he went on to Loeb & Loeb, before eventually returning to become an attorney and partner at Best, Best & Krieger. Dveirin graduated from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law with a JD, from the University of California, Los Angeles with an undergraduate degree in political science, and from the University of California, Riverside with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.

 

34. Melissa Alvarez
Trial Attorney, McDermott Will & Emery
Columbia University in the City of New York

Melissa Alvarez began her professional career over 18 years ago. Today, she is a Trial Attorney for McDermott Will & Emery. McDermott Will & Emery partners with leaders around the world to fuel missions, knock down barriers, and shape markets. With over 20 locations globally, their team works seamlessly across practices, industries, and geographies to deliver highly effective, and often unexpected, solutions that propel success. More than 1,200 lawyers strong, they bring their personal passion and legal prowess to bear in every matter for their clients and the people they serve.

Alvarez first got her start in 2004 as an associate at K&L Gates. From there, she went on to Bilzin Sumberg, before eventually rising to her most recent position prior to joining McDermott Will & Emery. Alvarez graduated from Columbia University in the City of New York with a JD and from the University of Miami with an undergraduate degree in history and political science.

 

35. Aparna Kothari-Mears
Conflicts Attorney, Covington & Burling
Syracuse University

Aparna Kothari-Mears is a Conflicts Attorney for Covington & Burling. Covington & Burling is an American multinational law firm. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the firm advises clients on transactional, litigation, regulatory, and public policy matters. In 2021, the firm was ranked as the number one law firm in Washington, DC.

Previously, Kothari-Mears was a contract attorney at Constantine Cannon, and before that, an attorney at Dombroff Gilmore Jaques & French. Earlier in her career she worked with Ruprecht, Hart & Weeks as a defense counsel. Kothari-Mears earned a JD from Syracuse University College of Law and an undergraduate degree in East Asian studies from Union College.

 

36. Mark Quist
Data Privacy Lawyer , Reed Smith
The University of Texas at Austin

Mark Quist is a Data Privacy Lawyer with Reed Smith. Reed Smith is a dynamic international law firm dedicated to helping clients move their businesses forward. With an inclusive culture and innovative mindset, they deliver smarter, more creative legal services that drive better outcomes for their clients. Their deep industry knowledge, long-standing relationships, and collaborative structure make them the go-to partner for complex disputes, transactions, and regulatory matters. Quist has over 11 years of experience. He began his career in 2011.

Before joining Reed Smith, Quist was a state attorney general and litigation associate at Cozen O'Connor and before that, a trial attorney at Bancroft, McGavin, Horvath & Judkins. Earlier in his career he worked with George Mason University School of Law as a research assistant to Professor David Schleicher. Quist graduated from George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School with a JD and from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in history, philosophy, literature, and British studies.

 

37. Derek Wetmore
Attorney, Paul Hastings
University of Virginia

Derek Wetmore began his professional career over 18 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with Paul Hastings. At Paul Hastings, their purpose is to help their clients and people navigate new paths to growth. With a strong presence throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the U.S., Paul Hastings is recognized as one of the world’s most innovative global law firms. Its winning approach is anchored in its culture of collaboration and collegiality, and in always harnessing the insights of its diverse team to get to the best solutions. They attract and promote extraordinary talent, preeminent partners in their fields who are energetic, dynamic, and who share their commitment to their clients.

Wetmore first got his start in 2004 as a summer litigation clerk at Husch Blackwell. From there, he went on to NewFields, before eventually rising to become a senior associate at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, his most recent position prior to joining Paul Hastings. Wetmore graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law with a JD and from Emory University with an undergraduate degree.

 

38. Michael Packard
Litigation Attorney, Quinn Emanuel
Harvard University

Michael Packard is an Attorney for Quinn Emanuel. He first joined the firm in 2018. Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan is a 900+ lawyer business litigation firm, the largest in the world devoted solely to business litigation and arbitration. Their lawyers have tried over 2,300 cases and won 88% of them. When they represent defendants, their trial experience gets them better settlements or defense verdicts. When representing plaintiffs, their lawyers have won over $70 billion in judgments and settlements.

Previously, Packard was an assistant U.S. attorney in the U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Maryland and before that, an attorney at Ropes & Gray. Earlier in his career, he worked with St. Paul's School for Boys as a history teacher. Packard earned a JD from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and an undergraduate degree in history and international relations from Harvard University.

 

39. Ryan Lowe
Senior Corporate Attorney, Mentor Graphics
Brigham Young University

Ryan Lowe is a Senior Corporate Attorney for Mentor Graphics. Mentor Graphics is a technology leader in electronic design automation (EDA), providing software and hardware design solutions that enable companies to develop better electronic products faster and more cost-effectively. The company offers innovative products and solutions that help engineers overcome the design challenges they face in the increasingly complex world of board and chip design. Lowe has over 15 years of experience. He began his career in 2007.

Before joining Mentor Graphics, Lowe was an attorney at Immix Law Group PC. Earlier in his career he worked with Flying J as a trading analyst. Lowe graduated from Lewis & Clark Law School with a JD in business and from Brigham Young University with an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering.

 

40. Paul Do
Attorney, Clark Hill
University of California, Berkeley

Paul Do is an Attorney with Clark Hill. Clark Hill offers their clients an exceptional team, dedicated to the delivery of outstanding service. With locations spanning across the United States, Ireland, and Mexico, they work in agile, collaborative teams, partnering with clients to help them reach and exceed their business goals. Do represents clients in commercial general liability, product liability, and class action litigation. He assists his clients in all phases of litigation and alternative dispute resolution at state and federal levels. He has successfully defended clients and achieved favorable results via dispositive motions, arbitration, mediation, and settlement negotiations. Do has substantial experience that covers defending clients in catastrophic accident, toxic tort, construction defect, and medical malpractice litigation.

Prior to joining Clark Hill, Do was an independent contract attorney for over 10 years. Previously, he was an associate at Tribler Orpett & Meyer, McKenna Storer, and Pugh, Jones & Johnson. He first got his start in 2004 as an associate with Patton & Ryan. Do graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a JD and an undergraduate degree in political science and government.

 

41. Seth Lloyd
Attorney, Morrison & Foerster
Brigham Young University

Seth Lloyd is an Attorney with Morrison & Foerster. He first joined the firm in 2015. Morrison Foerster transforms complexity into an advantage. With their collective intelligence, they shape powerful legal strategies that move businesses forward while living their shared values. They solve the most critical multidimensional challenges in a way that provides clarity around the risk their clients are facing and gives confidence in their chosen path.

Previously, Lloyd was a law clerk in the U.S. Court of Appeals and before that, a research assistant at Stanford University and Brigham Young University. Lloyd graduated from Stanford University with a JD in law and a PhD and MS in electrical engineering. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics and electrical engineering from Brigham Young University.

 

42. Patrick Quine
Corporate Lawyer, Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton
University of Notre Dame

Patrick Quine is a Corporate Attorney at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton, a full-service law firm with offices in 15 cities worldwide. Quine specializes in merger and acquisition transactions representing private equity firms, public and private companies, founders, and family-owned businesses in various industries including consumer goods, food services, aerospace and defense, technology, and financial services. Quine is a trusted advisor to his clients and proactively helps them find solutions rather than problems.

Patrick earned his JD at Georgetown University Law Center and his undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame.

 

43. Brian Cozzo
Intellectual Property Attorney, K&L Gates
Columbia University in the City of New York

Brian Bozzo is an Intellectual Property Attorney with K&L Gates. At K&L Gates, they foster an inclusive and collaborative environment across their fully integrated global platform that enables them to diligently combine the knowledge and expertise of their lawyers and policy professionals to create teams that provide exceptional client solutions. Bozzo has over 14 years of experience. He began his career in 2008.

Before joining K&L Gates, Bozzo was an intellectual property attorney at The Webb Law Firm and before that, a project engineer at Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company. Earlier in his career he worked with NASA as an ambassador. Bozzo graduated from Drexel University with a JD in intellectual property law, from Columbia University in the City of New York with a Master's in mechanical engineering, and from Villanova University with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.

 

44. Marva Brown
Senior Trial Attorney, The Legal Aid Society
Columbia University in the City of New York

Marva Brown is a Senior Trial Attorney with The Legal Aid Society. The Legal Aid Society is built on one simple but powerful belief: that no person should be denied the right to equal justice. The Legal Aid Society is the nation's oldest and largest provider of legal services to the indigent. Founded in 1876, the Society provides a full range of civil legal services as well as criminal defense work, and juvenile rights representation in Family Court. Their core service is to provide free legal assistance to New Yorkers who live at or below the poverty level and cannot afford to hire a lawyer when confronted with a legal problem. Brown has over 14 years of experience. She began her career in 2008.

Brown graduated from Cardozo School of Law with a JD and from Columbia University in the City of New York with an undergraduate degree in African American and Black studies.

 

45. Elaine Santucci
Conflicts Attorney, Shearman & Sterling
The University of Texas at Austin

Elaine Santucci is a Conflicts Attorney for Shearman & Sterling. She first joined the firm in 2021. Shearman & Sterling has been advising many of the world's leading corporations, financial institutions, governments, and governmental organizations for more than 140 years. They are committed to providing legal advice that is insightful and valuable to their clients. They have over 850 lawyers around the world speaking more than 60 languages and practicing in U.S., English, French, German, Italian, Hong Kong, OHADA and Saudi law. Nearly half of their lawyers practice outside the United States. Combining legal knowledge with industry expertise, its lawyers provide commercial advice that helps clients achieve their ambitions.

Previously, Santucci was a conflicts analyst supervisor at Kirkland & Ellis and before that, a global treasury services consultant at J.P. Morgan. Santucci earned a JD from New England Law and an undergraduate degree in government and political science from The University of Texas at Austin.

 

46. Jon Israel
Sports & Labor/Employment Lawyer, Foley & Lardner
Harvard University

Jon Israel is a Sports & Labor/Employment Lawyer with Foley & Lardner. Foley & Lardner looks beyond the law to focus on the constantly evolving demands facing their clients and their industries. With over 1,100 lawyers in 25 offices worldwide, Foley approaches client service by first understanding their clients’ priorities, objectives, and challenges. They work hard to understand their clients’ issues and forge long-term relationships with them to help achieve successful outcomes and solve their legal issues through practical business advice and cutting-edge legal insight. Israel has over 22 years of experience. He began his career in 2000.

Before joining Foley & Lardner, Israel was an assistant general counsel at the National Basketball Association (NBA). Israel graduated from Columbia Law School with a JD and from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree.

 

47. Daniel Crump
Counsel, Google
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Daniel Crump began his professional career over 15 years ago. Today, he is a Counsel for Alphabet Regulatory Response, Investigation and Strategy with Google. Crump collaborates with internal clients and outside counsel to assess issues and risks facing Google and their products.

Crump first got his start in 2007 as a 6th grade math teacher at Kipp Academy of Opportunity, before eventually moving on to become an attorney with WilmerHale. Crump graduated from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law with a JD, from Loyola Marymount University with a master’s degree in elementary education and teaching, and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with an undergraduate degree in legal studies.

 

48. Jason Lichtstein
Environmental Lawyer & Partner, Akerman
University of Michigan

Jason Lichtstein began his professional career over 18 years ago. Today, he is the Environmental Lawyer and Partner with Akerman. Akerman is a client-driven enterprise, recognized by Financial Times as among the most forward-thinking law firms in the industry. They are ranked among the top 100 law firms in the United States, with a reach that extends across the Americas and globally. It's more than 700 lawyers and business professionals collaborate with the world’s most successful enterprises and entrepreneurs to navigate change, seize opportunities, and help drive innovation and growth.

Lichtstein graduated from Emory University School of Law with a JD and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree.

 

49. Elizabeth Lamin
Assistant Ramsey County Attorney, Ramsey County
University Wisconsin-Madison

Elizabeth Lamin is an accomplished attorney working as an Assistant County Attorney for Ramsey County, which includes the city of St. Paul, Minnesota. She works in the adult felony trial division, handling gang shootings and homicides. In this capacity, she has tried dozens of high-profile murder cases and hundreds of other cases involving violent crimes. Her expertise has been sought to assist with the drafting of legislation, mentoring new trial attorneys, and forming partnerships with community organizations.

Lamin has a BA from University Wisconsin-Madison in history and political science and received her law degree from the University of Minnesota Law School in 2004, magna cum laude, after which she clerked for Judge David Minge at the Minnesota Court of Appeals. She was born in Leningrad, USSR (now St. Petersburg, Russia), and immigrated with her family in the late 1970s to escape religious and political persecution. She lives with her partner and two teenage children in Eagan, Minnesota.

 

50. Chelsea Mikulencak
Research Attorney, Jackson Walker
The University of Texas at Austin

Chelsea Mikulencak is a Research Attorney with Jackson Walker. She first joined the firm in 2021. Jackson Walker is a Texas-based law firm with a national presence and global reach. With more than 400 attorneys, they are one of the largest firms in the state and provide comprehensive services in a broad range of practice areas. At the same time, by keeping their offices in Texas, they provide excellent value for clients and maintain the nimbleness to adapt to their needs.

Previously, Mikulencak was an assistant city attorney for the City of San Antonio and before that, a law clerk and attorney at Joshua Graham & Associates. Earlier in her career, she worked with Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi as a writing consultant. Mikulencak earned a JD from Texas A&M University School of Law and an undergraduate degree in English language and literature from The University of Texas at Austin.

 

51. Ken Gish
Renewable Energy & Sustainability Lawyer, K&L Gates
Georgetown University

Ken Gish began his professional career over 27 years ago. Today, he is a Renewable Energy and Sustainability Lawyer with K&L Gates. At K&L Gates, they foster an inclusive and collaborative environment across their fully integrated global platform that enables them to diligently combine the knowledge and expertise of their lawyers and policy professionals to create teams that provide exceptional client solutions.

Gish first got his start in 1995 as a naval officer in the U.S. Navy. He previously served as an environmental and energy attorney at Stites & Harbison, his most recent position prior to joining K&L Gates. Gish graduated from the University of Michigan Law School with a JD and from Georgetown University with an undergraduate degree in government.

 

52. Judy Yi
Attorney, Polsinelli
Dartmouth College

Judy Yi is an Attorney with Polsinelli. Polsinelli is an Am Law 100 firm with more than 950 attorneys in 21 cities coast-to-coast. The firm’s attorneys provide value through practical legal counsel infused with business insight, and focus on health care, financial services, real estate, intellectual property, mid-market corporate, labor and employment, and business litigation. Yi has over 20 years of experience. She began her career in 2001.

Before joining Polsinelli, Yi was an attorney and municipal law counselor at DeCotiis, FitzPatrick, Cole & Wisler. Yi graduated from the University of Minnesota Law School with a JD, from Humphrey School of Public Affairs with an undergraduate degree in public policy, and from Dartmouth College with an undergraduate degree in sociology and education.

 

53. Ashley McFarland
Senior Assistant City Attorney, City of Rockville
The Ohio State University

Ashley McFarland began her professional career over 14 years ago. Today, she is a Senior Assistant City Attorney for the City of Rockville. Their community is one of the most diverse and international in the world, with over one-third of their residents having been born outside the United States, coming from virtually every country in the world.

McFarland first got her start in 2008 as a law clerk at the Franklin County Public Defender's Office. From there, she went on to the Children's Law Center, before eventually rising to become an associate general counsel at the District of Columbia Housing Authority, her most recent position prior to joining the City of Rockville. McFarland graduated from The Ohio State University with a JD and from Hampton University with an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

54. Arryn Miner
Litigation Attorney, Vorys Sater Seymour and Pease
The Ohio State University

Arryn Miner is a Litigation Attorney with Vorys Sater Seymour and Pease. She first joined the firm in 2018. Vorys was established in 1909 and has grown to be one of the largest Ohio-based law firms with nearly 375 attorneys in eight offices in Ohio, Texas, Washington DC, Pennsylvania, and California. Vorys currently ranks as one of the 200 largest law firms in the United States according to American Lawyer magazine.

Previously, Miner was a president-elect at John Mercer Langston Bar Association and before that a commercial litigation attorney at Dinsmore & Shohl. Miner earned a JD from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and an undergraduate degree in psychology from The Ohio State University.

 

55. Kevin Comeau
Enforcement Attorney, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Georgetown University

Kevin Comeau is an Enforcement Attorney with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The mission of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. The SEC holds primary responsibility for enforcing the federal securities laws and regulating the securities industry, the nation's stock and options exchanges, and other electronic securities markets in the United States. Comeau has over 15 years of experience. He began his career in 2007.

Before joining the SEC, Comeau was an associate at Jones Day. Comeau graduated from George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School with a JD, from New York University with an MA in sociology of education, and from Georgetown University with an undergraduate degree in international politics.

 

56. Mark Leahy
Business Lawyer, Fenwick & West
Stanford University

Mark Leahy began his professional career over 32 years ago. Today, he is a Business Lawyer with Fenwick & West. Fenwick provides comprehensive legal services to ground-breaking technology and life sciences companies at every stage of their lifecycle, and to the investors that partner with them. The firm crafts innovative, cost-effective, and practical solutions on issues ranging from venture capital, public offerings, joint ventures, M&A and strategic relationships, to intellectual property, litigation and dispute resolution, taxation, antitrust, and employment and labor law. For more than four decades, Fenwick has helped some of the world's most recognized companies become and remain market leaders.

Leahy first got his start in 1989 as a business lawyer at Latham & Watkins before eventually moving on to Loeb & Loeb. He graduated from the University of Chicago with a JD and an MBA and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in industrial engineering.

 

57. Forrest Tahdooahnippah
Attorney, Dorsey & Whitney
Stanford University

Forrest Tahdooahnippah is an Attorney with Dorsey & Whitney. He first joined the firm in 2012. Dorsey provides an integrated, proactive approach to its clients'​ legal and business needs. Dorsey represents a number of the world's most successful companies from a wide range of industries, including leaders in the health care and life sciences industries. The firm’s largest office is in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dorsey’s diverse client base includes more than one-third of Fortune 100 companies. They are a leader in mergers and acquisitions work. Every year since 1994, Dorsey has ranked in the top 10 among all law firms for the number of U.S. M&A deals completed.

Previously, Tahdooahnippah was a judicial law clerk in the U.S. District Court. Tahdooahnippah earned a JD from the University of Minnesota Law School and an undergraduate degree in public policy from Stanford University.

 

58. Allison Gilder
Registered Patent Attorney, Foley Hoag
University of California, Berkeley

Allison Gilder is the Registered Patent Attorney for Foley Hoag. Foley Hoag is a dynamic law firm that represents public and private clients in a wide range of disputes and transactions worldwide. They have expertise in industries such as life sciences and healthcare, technology, energy and renewables, investment management, professional services, and education. They also offer their clients market-leading international litigation and arbitration and corporate social responsibility services. From its offices in Boston, New York, Paris, and DC, they provide strategic legal advice that is tailored to each of its clients'​ unique goals. Gilder has over 13 years in the law practice industry. She began her career in 2009.

Gilder graduated from Boston University School of Law with a JD, from Yale University with a PhD in cell/cellular and molecular biology, and from the University of California, Berkeley with an undergraduate degree in integrative biology and anthropology.

 

59. Melissa Lesmes
Attorney, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman
Duke University

Melissa Lesmes is an Attorney for Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman. She first joined the company in 2011. Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, headquartered in New York City, is an international law firm with a particular focus on the technology and media, energy, financial services, and real estate and construction sectors. Pillsbury and its lawyers are highly regarded for their forward-thinking approach, their enthusiasm for collaborating across disciplines and their authoritative commercial awareness. The firm has approximately 700 attorneys operating from 20 offices in the U.S., London, and Asia.

Lesmes earned a JD from William & Mary Law School, and an undergraduate degree in public policy studies from Duke University.

 

60. Robert Phelan
Lawyer, Cozen O'Connor
Georgetown University

Robert Phelan is a Lawyer with Cozen O'Connor. He first joined the company in 2005. Ranked among the top 100 law firms in the country, Cozen O’Connor has more than 800 attorneys in 31 cities across two continents. Cozen is a full-service firm with nationally recognized practices in litigation, business law, and government relations, and its attorneys have experience operating in all sectors of the economy. The firm’s diverse client list includes global Fortune 500 companies, middle-market firms poised for growth, ambitious startups, and high-profile individuals.

Previously, Phelan was a translator in market research at BosMosco. Phelan earned a JD from the University of Minnesota Law School, and an undergraduate degree in international politics from Georgetown University.

 

61. Harry Boadwee
Senior Attorney, Axiom
Stanford University

Harry Boadwee began his professional career 35 years ago. Today, he is a Senior Attorney with Axiom. Axiom is a global leader in high-caliber, diverse legal talent. With over 5,800 lawyers spanning North America, the UK, Europe, and APAC, Axiom enables corporate legal departments to drive efficiency and growth and to adapt to a demanding new era. Axiom shares and meets the higher standards of its clients and lawyers, with the firm’s “work smarter, adapt faster, go further” approach, connecting growing mid-market and Fortune 500 companies with the world’s deepest bench of experienced, specialized legal talent.

Boadwee first got his start in 1987 as an associate corporate attorney at Debevoise & Plimpton. From there, he went on to Fenwick & West, before eventually rising to become a senior corporate counsel at Amazon Lab126, his most recent position prior to joining Axiom. Boadwee graduated from Columbia Law School with a JD, and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in English.

 

62. Joshua Ferrentino
Attorney, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Cornell University

Joshua Ferrentino is an Attorney for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. He first joined the firm in 2020. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is an independent agency that regulates the interstate transmission of natural gas, oil, and electricity. FERC also regulates natural gas and hydropower projects. Their mission is to assist consumers in obtaining reliable, safe, secure, and economically efficient energy services at a reasonable cost through appropriate regulatory and market means, and collaborative efforts.

Previously, Ferrentino was a counsel at Corr Cronin, and before that, an assistant United States Attorney at the United States Attorneys' Office, Western District of Washington. Earlier in his career he worked with the Federal Trade Commission as an honors paralegal specialist. Ferrentino earned a JD from the University of Virginia School of Law and an undergraduate degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University.

 

63. Gregory Wu
Attorney, Shook Hardy & Bacon
University of Michigan

Gregory Wu is an Attorney with Shook Hardy & Bacon. Shook, Hardy & Bacon has long been recognized as one of the premier litigation firms in the country. For more than a century, the firm has defended companies in their most substantial national and international product liability, mass tort, and complex litigation matters. The firm has leveraged its complex product liability litigation expertise to expand into several other practice areas and advance its mission of “being the best in the world at providing creative and practical solutions at an unsurpassed value.” As a result, the firm has built nationally recognized practices in areas such as intellectual property, environmental and toxic tort, employment litigation, commercial litigation, government enforcement and compliance, and public policy. Wu has over 19 years of experience. He began his career in 2002.

Wu graduated from the University of Illinois College of Law with a JD and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in history.

 

64. Ken Levinson
Attorney, Fredrikson & Byron
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Ken Levinson began his professional career over 32 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with Fredrikson & Byron. At Fredrikson & Byron, they've built a reputation as the firm “where law and business meet” by bringing business acumen and entrepreneurial thinking to their work with clients, and by operating as business advisors and strategic partners as well as legal counselors.

In 1990, Levinson served as a vice president with Northwest Airlines. From there, he went on to KPMG US, before eventually rising to become a partner at Faegre Baker Daniels, his most recent position prior to joining Fredrikson & Byron. Levinson graduated from George Washington University National Law Center with a JD and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with an undergraduate degree.

 

65. Melanie Leney
Senior Corporate Attorney, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Companies
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Melanie Leney is a Senior Corporate Attorney for Otsuka Pharmaceutical Companies. She first joined the company in 2017 as a corporate attorney. Otsuka Pharmaceutical successfully commercializes Otsuka-discovered and in-licensed products in North America. Additionally, they clinically develop and register innovative healthcare products on a global basis.

Previously, Leney was an attorney at Montgomery McCracken Walker & Rhoads and before that, a law clerk to Honorable Anthony J. Parrillo at the New Jersey Superior Court, Appellate Division. Leney earned a JD from Rutgers Law School and an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

 

66. Todd Henderson
General Attorney, U.S. Small Business Administration
Cornell University

Todd Henderson began his professional career over 15 years ago. Today, he is a General Attorney for the U.S. Small Business Administration. Created in 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. As the nation's only go-to resource and voice for small businesses, the SBA provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise so businesses can confidently start, grow, expand, or recover.

Henderson first got his start in 2007 as a paralegal specialist at the IRS Office of Chief Counsel. From there, he went on to Faruqi & Faruqi before eventually rising to become an associate attorney at Bragar Eagel & Squire, his most recent position prior to joining the SBA. Henderson graduated from Brooklyn Law School with a JD in business law and from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in American studies and film.

 

67. Harrison Kuntz
Attorney, Ogletree Deakins
University of California, Los Angeles

Harrison Kuntz is an Attorney with Ogletree Deakins. Ogletree Deakins is one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management in all types of employment-related legal matters. The firm’s labor and employment practice is complemented and supported by related practice groups in the areas of business immigration, litigation, employee benefits, occupational safety and health, and construction law. With offices throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, and Mexico, the firm represents a diverse range of clients. Its depth of experience in labor and employment law has produced a successful track record for its clients. Kuntz has nearly 15 years of experience. He began his career in 2007.

Before joining Ogletree Deakins, Kuntz was a field examiner at the National Labor Relations Board. Earlier in his career he worked with the International Labour Organization as a P2 technical officer. Kuntz graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a JD in labor and employment law, from the University of California, Los Angeles with a master’s degree in public policy, and from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in industrial and labor relations.

 

68. Gino Barbera
Managing Attorney, Kasowitz Benson Torres
Princeton University

Gino Barbera is a Managing Attorney with Kasowitz Benson Torres. Their core focus is commercial litigation, complemented by their exceptionally strong bankruptcy/restructuring and real estate transactional practices. They are known for their creative, aggressive litigators and willingness to take on tough cases. They outthink and outflank their opponents and understand how to win for their clients. Their clients include Fortune 500 companies, private equity, and other investment firms across a wide range of industries, including significant experience across financial services, technology, and real estate. Barbera has over 25 years of experience. He began his career in 1997.

Before joining Kasowitz Benson Torres, Barbera was a managing attorney with Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, and before that, a managing attorney with Herrick Feinstein. Earlier in his career he worked with Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman as a managing attorney. Barbera graduated from Brooklyn Law School with a JD and from Princeton University with an undergraduate degree in history.

 

69. Andrew Quecan
Patent Attorney, Dorsey & Whitney
University of South Florida

Andrew Quecan began his professional career over 18 years ago. Today, he is a Patent Attorney with Dorsey & Whitney. Dorsey provides an integrated, proactive approach to its clients'​ legal and business needs. They represent a number of the world's most successful companies from a wide range of industries, including leaders in the health care and life sciences industries.

Quecan first got his start with Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear. He graduated from The University of Texas School of Law with a JD and from the University of South Florida with an undergraduate degree in finance and political science.

 

70. Vanessa Chavez
City Attorney, City of Cedar Rapids
University of New Mexico

Vanessa Chavez is an Attorney for the City of Cedar Rapids. She first joined the city in 2021. Chavez is a problem-solver committed to success. She has served as general counsel to municipalities, local government bodies, small businesses, and associations, helping them take proactive steps to accomplish their goals while also reducing the chances that they will end up in litigation.

Previously, Chavez was an attorney for the City of Green Bay and before that an adjunct instructor at The University of New Mexico. Earlier in her career she worked with Robles, Rael & Anaya as an attorney. Chavez earned a JD from The University of New Mexico School of Law and an undergraduate degree in philosophy with a minor in music from New Mexico State University.

 

71. Peter Anderson
Litigation Attorney, Morgan & Morgan
University of Michigan

Peter Anderson is a Litigation Attorney with Morgan & Morgan. Since 1988, Morgan & Morgan has been fighting for the people. Every client who walks through its doors is treated the same way. They believe that no one, no matter who they are, or where they’re from, should ever feel powerless when fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve. With over $10+ Billion dollars recovered for its clients, offices across 49 states and DC, and an army of over 800 attorneys, they are everywhere for everyone. Anderson has over 12 years of experience. He began his career in 2010.

Before joining Morgan & Morgan, Anderson was a partner at KBA Attorneys and before that, a senior associate attorney at Grenier Law Group. Earlier in his career he worked with Ashcraft & Gerel as an associate attorney. Anderson graduated from The George Washington University Law School with a JD and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in psychology.

 

72. Kenneth Milne
Senior Attorney, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings
The University of Texas at Austin

Kenneth Milne began his professional career 12 years ago. Today, he is a Senior Attorney with Bradley Arant Boult Cummings. Bradley is a national law firm with a reputation for skilled legal work, exceptional client service, and impeccable integrity. It provides business clients around the world with a full suite of legal services in dozens of industries and practice areas. Its 10 offices are located in 7 states in the U.S., giving the firm an extensive geographic base to represent clients on a regional, national, and international basis. Bradley frequently serves as national coordinating counsel, regional counsel, and statewide counsel for clients in various industries.

Milne first got his start in 2010 as an attorney with Fowler Rodriguez Valdes-Fauli. From there, he went on to Way Services Ltd as VP and general counsel, his most recent positions prior to joining Bradley Arant Boult Cummings. Milne graduated from South Texas College of Law with a JD and from The University of Texas at Austin with an undergraduate degree in economics.

 

73. Nivita Beri
Senior Attorney, Honigman
The Ohio State University

Nivita Beri began her professional career over 14 years ago. Today, she is a Senior Attorney with Honigman. Honigman is a leading business law firm serving clients locally, nationally, and internationally from its Midwest base. It counsels clients on complex legal issues in more than 60 areas of legal practice. The extraordinary proficiency of its attorneys and staff, Honigman’s client service ethic, and its Midwest cost structure allow it to successfully compete with the nation’s largest law firms. For more than 70 years, Honigman has been repeatedly commended by peers and clients for exceptional performance.

Beri first got her start in 2007 as a partner at Fishman Stewart PLLC (formerly Rader, Fishman & Grauer). She graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law with a JD, and from The Ohio State University with an undergraduate degree in business administration.

 

74. Makana Ellis
Attorney, Carlton Fields
Yale University

Makana Ellis began her professional career 17 years ago. Today, she is an Attorney with Carlton Fields. Carlton Fields has more than 330 attorneys and government and financial services consultants serving clients from offices in California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, DC. The firm is known for its national litigation practice, including class action defense, trial practice, white-collar representation, and high-stakes appeals; its insurance practice, including life and financial lines, property and casualty, reinsurance, and title insurance; its regulatory practice; and its handling of sophisticated business transactions and corporate counseling for domestic and international clients.

Ellis first got her start in 2005 as a director at the Dixwell-Yale University Community Learning Center at Yale University. From there, she went on to New Haven Judicial District Superior Court, before eventually moving on to become an attorney at Dzialo, Pickett & Allen, her most recent position prior to joining Carlton Fields. Ellis graduated from UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law with a JD, and from Yale University with an undergraduate degree in sociology.

 

75. Cristina Covarrubias
Trial Attorney, U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission
Harvard University

Cristina Covarrubias began her professional career over 17 years ago. Today, she is a Trial Attorney for the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The mission of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission is to promote the integrity, resilience, and vibrancy of the U.S. derivatives markets through sound regulation. They are guided in the service of their unique mission by their core values of commitment, forward-thinking, teamwork, and clarity.

Covarrubias first got her start in 2005 as a project assistant at Jenner & Block. From there, she went on to Winston & Strawn before eventually returning to Jenner & Block to become an associate, her most recent position prior to joining the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Covarrubias graduated from the University of Chicago Law School with a JD and from Harvard University with an undergraduate degree in government.

 

76. Thomas Forestier
Shareholder & Attorney, Winstead
The University of Texas at Austin

Thomas Forestier is a Shareholder and Attorney with Winstead. He first joined the firm in 2006. Winstead is a national business law firm with nearly 300 attorneys who serve as trusted advisors to emerging, mid-market and large companies, both public and private. The Winstead team provides a range of core legal services that are critical to their clients achieving business goals. Winstead’s business transactions and litigation practices serve key industries including airlines, financial services, and healthcare.

Previously, Forestier was a partner at Haynes and Boone. Earlier in his career he worked with McGinnis, Lochridge & Kilgore as an associate. Forestier earned a JD from The University of Texas School of Law and an undergraduate degree in petroleum engineering from The University of Texas at Austin.

 

77. Darcey Groden
Labor and Employment Attorney, Fisher Phillips
Stanford University

Darcey Groden is a Labor and Employment Attorney with Fisher Phillips. She first joined the company in 2018. Fisher Phillips is one of the largest U.S. law firms representing management exclusively in the areas of labor, employment, civil rights, employee benefits, and immigration law. The firm has 36 offices across the United States with more than 400 attorneys. Fisher Phillips’ several practice areas include employee benefits, employee leaves, employment discrimination and harassment, global immigration, labor relations, litigation of employment disputes, mergers and acquisitions, downsizing, and many more.

Previously, Groden was an associate at Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith. Earlier in her career she worked with the District of Columbia Superior Court as a law clerk. Groden earned a JD from Harvard Law School and an undergraduate degree in sociology from Stanford University.

 

78. Kurt Ellison
Attorney, Michael Best & Friedrich
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Kurt Ellison began his professional career 11 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with Michael Best & Friedrich. Michael Best is a leading law firm, providing a full range of legal services to clients on a global, regional, and local basis. The firm has more than 400 legal professionals, including nearly 300 attorneys, serving clients in 19 offices across the U.S. in 7 states. Its areas of practice include intellectual property, labor and employment relations, litigation, corporate and transactional, environmental, and natural resources, privacy and cybersecurity, real estate, regulatory, and tax. The firm serves a variety of industries, such as advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, digital technology, energy, food and beverage, higher education, and life sciences.

Ellison first got his start in 2011 as a law clerk at Previant, Goldberg, Uelmen, Gratz, Miller, & Brueggeman. From there, he went on to Menn Law Firm before eventually moving on to become a lawyer for business litigation, personal injury, insurance litigation, and crime at Ellison & David, his most recent position prior to joining Michael Best & Friedrich. Ellison graduated from Marquette University Law School with a JD and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with an undergraduate degree in political science.

 

79. Sean Hicks
Attorney, Williams Mullen
University of Virginia

Sean Hicks began his professional career over 12 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with Williams Mullen. Williams Mullen is a regional, full-service law firm with more than 240 attorneys in offices across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Since their firm began in 1909, their goal has been to provide business and legal solutions to help their clients’ businesses thrive. At Williams Mullen, they don’t have offices located around the world, but they proudly offer the same quality of work that, combined with consistently excellent client service, creates a better value for its clients

Hicks first got his start in 2010 as a law clerk at Carmax. From there, he went on to the Supreme Court of Virginia before eventually rising to become an attorney at Hirschler Fleischer, his most recent position prior to joining Williams Mullen. Hicks graduated from the University of Richmond School of Law with a JD and from the University of Virginia with an undergraduate degree in foreign affairs.

 

80. Nick Koltay
Conflicts Attorney, Goodwin
University of Notre Dame

Nick Koltay is a Conflicts Attorney with Goodwin. Goodwin Procter is a multinational law firm headquartered in Boston. It is one of the largest law firms in the world as measured by revenue and consists of more than 1,800 lawyers across offices in 12 locations in the U.S., Europe, and Hong Kong. Goodwin focuses on complex transactional work, high-stakes litigation and advisory services in matters involving financial institutions, intellectual property, private equity, real estate capital markets, securities litigation, white collar defense, technology, and life sciences. Koltay has over 11 years of experience. He began his career in 2011.

Before joining Goodwin, Koltay was a staff attorney at Dade Legal Aid and before that a assistant state attorney at 17th Judicial Circuit of Florida. Earlier in his career he worked with 11th Judicial Circuit of Florida as a judicial clerk to Judge Israel Reyes and Judge Barbara Areces. Koltay graduated from the University of Notre Dame with an undergraduate degree in history and a JD.

 

81. Daniel Riegel
Managing Attorney, Travis County
The University of Texas at Austin

Daniel Riegel is a Managing Attorney for Travis County. He first joined the county in 2022. Travis County considers it a high priority to recruit, motivate and retain employees capable of providing exemplary service to the residents of Travis County by using a total compensation system that is fair, flexible and market competitive. They value an open, diverse community where all people are safe and healthy and can fulfill their hopes and dreams; one which provides a good quality of life and protects their natural resources for themselves and future generations.

Previously, Riegel was a managing attorney at Riegel Law Firm and before that, a partner at Richards Rodriguez & Skeith. Earlier in his career he worked with AmeriCorps. Riegel earned a JD from The George Washington University Law School and an undergraduate degree in mathematics from The University of Texas at Austin.

 

82. Jennifer Jovcevski
Corporate Attorney, Nixon Peabody
Florida State University

Jennifer Jovcevski is a Corporate Attorney for Nixon Peabody. At Nixon Peabody, they create a positive impact for their clients, their communities, their people, and their firm. They deliver exceptional service, building and preserving trust while fostering a culture of collaboration, respect, and diversity. Deep industry knowledge, experience, and entrepreneurial spirit fuel creative solutions to the most complex legal problems. Jovcevski has over 14 years of experience. She began her career in 2008.

Before joining Nixon Peabody, Jovcevski was a senior associate at Boylan Code and before that, an associate attorney at Osborn Reed & Burke. Earlier in her career she worked with Teach for America as a third-grade teacher. Jovcevski graduated from Syracuse University with a JD and an MA in cultural foundations of education, and from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree in communication studies.

 

83. Brandon Cherry
Entertainment Attorney, Loeb & Loeb
Duke University

Brandon Cherry began his professional career over 26 years ago. Today, he is an Entertainment Attorney with Loeb & Loeb. Loeb & Loeb is a premier law firm focused on helping organizations and individuals innovate, grow, and evolve in a changing world. Their market-leading practice and industry teams deliver practical insight and strategic solutions in complex deals, high profile disputes, cutting-edge regulatory issues, and other matters critical to their clients’ success.

Cherry first got his start in 1996 as an engineer at Chevron Oronite Company. From there, he went on to Lockheed Martin before eventually rising to become a senior associate at Weil Gotshal & Manges, his most recent position prior to joining Loeb & Loeb. Cherry graduated from Columbia Law School and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.

 

84. Steven Quiring
Attorney, Locke Lord
The University of Texas at Austin

Steven Quiring is an Attorney with Locke Lord. He first joined the company in 2003 as a partner. Locke Lord is a premier full-service law firm that has earned a solid reputation for complex litigation, regulatory and transactional work on behalf of clients in important and growing industry sectors around the world. Throughout its more than 130-year history, the firm has cultivated partnerships with a broad range of public and private companies, from Fortune 500 leaders to startups and emerging businesses. Its team can design strategic solutions that meet long-term goals no matter how large or small the matter, applying their established tradition of responsive, personalized service.

Previously, Quiring was a briefing attorney to Justice Harriet O'Neill at the Supreme Court of Texas. Quiring earned a JD and an MA in classics from The University of Texas at Austin, and an undergraduate degree in classics and history from Rutgers University.

 

85. Charlie Laplante
Research Attorney, Orange County Superior Court
Miami University

Charlie Laplante is a Research Attorney for Orange County Superior Court. The Superior Court of California, County of Orange, is the fifth largest trial court in the nation. The court handles over 500,000 annual case filings and serves the county’s population, which exceeds 3 million. The court operates five justice centers, in eight locations throughout Orange County, and handles all types of state cases including civil, criminal, traffic, family, juvenile, and probate. Laplante has over 19 years of experience. He began his career in 2003.

Before joining Orange County Superior Court, Laplante was an associate at Bassi Edlin Huie & Blum, and before that, a senior counsel at Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley. Earlier in his career he worked with Miami University as a research assistant to Professor Samir Bali. Laplante graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law with a JD and from Miami University with an undergraduate degree in physics.

 

86. Patrick Lamparello
Attorney, Proskauer Rose
Columbia University in the City of New York

Patrick Lamparello began his professional career over 18 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney with Proskauer Rose. Proskauer Rose has 800+ lawyers serving clients from offices located in the leading financial and business centers in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. It is known for its labor and employment, litigation, corporate, private equity, private investment funds, finance, and intellectual property law departments. The world’s leading organizations, companies, and corporations choose Proskauer to be their representative in their most critical situations. Proskauer works with asset managers, major sports leagues, Fortune 500 companies, entertainment industry legends and other industry-redefining companies. The firm has long been the primary outside law firm for the NBA.

Lamparello graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School with a JD, and from Columbia University in the City of New York with an undergraduate degree in computer science.

 

87. Michael Toomey
Litigation Attorney, Winston & Strawn
Washington University in St. Louis

Michael Toomey began his professional career over 13 years ago. Today, he is a Litigation Attorney with Winston & Strawn. Winston & Strawn is an international law firm with more than 900 attorneys in key financial centers around the world. It litigates cases and closes transactions by bringing an understanding of the global legal issues that the clients face in transactions, disputes, and regulatory/enforcement-related matters. Winston & Strawn strives to provide its clients with on time and on budget creative solutions to their business problems. It serves its communities and the public interest, promotes diversity within the firm and throughout the legal profession, and maintains a culture of teamwork and collegiality.

Toomey first got his start in 2009 as a staff analyst at ApplEcon. Toomey graduated from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law with a JD, and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in economics, political science, and mathematics.

 

88. Nadya Salcedo
Attorney, Goldstein Hall
Rice University

Nadya Salcedo is an Attorney with Goldstein Hall. She first joined the firm in 2017. Goldstein Hall is a full-service real estate law firm with a concentration in affordable housing and community development. Since their inception in 2006, they have been proud to continue to enhance their reputation as a smart, reputable, and responsive firm that believes their achievements are deeply rooted in the community and in success.

Previously, Salcedo was a senior associate at Weil Gotshal and Manges. Earlier in her career, she worked with the Legal Aid Society as a paralegal case handler on housing, welfare, and 9/11 benefits. Salcedo earned a JD from New York University School of Law and an undergraduate degree in political science from Rice University.

 

89. Lisa Virani
Discovery Attorney, Williams & Connolly
University of Notre Dame

Lisa Virani is a Discovery Attorney with Williams & Connolly. Williams & Connolly is widely recognized as one of the nation’s premier litigation firms. Its lawyers routinely handle significant and complex civil, criminal, and administrative cases across the United States and around the globe. The firm maintains a strong tradition of hiring the best and the brightest and training and promoting its lawyers from within, producing closely knit and collaborative teams dedicated to achieving successful outcomes for its clients. The firm’s clients include major global companies from virtually every sector, including Pfizer, Disney, Samsung, Intel, Bank of America, Google, The Carlyle Group, Medtronic, AstraZeneca, Genentech, Eli Lilly, 21st Century Fox, and HSBC. Virani has over 17 years of experience. She began her career in 2004.

Before joining Williams & Connolly, Virani was an assistant general counsel at Audigier Brand Management Group and before that, an associate at Eisner. Earlier in her career she worked with Thelen Reid & Priest as an associate. Virani graduated from The George Washington University Law School with a JD and from the University of Notre Dame with an undergraduate degree in American studies.

 

90. Sam Blatnick
Attorney & Partner, Stinson
Georgetown University

Sam Blatnick began his professional career 24 years ago. Today, he is an Attorney and Partner with Stinson. Stinson is a force in the Midwest, with offices throughout 10 states in the USA. The firm is home to nearly 500 attorneys who work across dozens of practice areas and industries. It is a full-service firm, with practices ranging from business litigation, corporate finance, energy and environmental law, employment, real estate, and many more.

Blatnick first got his start in 1998 as a tax consultant at EY. From there, he went on to Cravath, Swaine & Moore, before eventually moving on to become an attorney and partner at Kutak Rock, his most recent positions prior to joining Stinson. Blatnick graduated from the University of Chicago Law School with a JD and from Georgetown University with an undergraduate degree in accounting and finance.

 

91. Victor Franckiewicz
Attorney, Butler Snow
Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Victor Franckiewicz is an Attorney with Butler Snow. He first joined the company in 2009. Butler Snow is a team of talented legal professionals who share a commitment to serve clients from Fortune 1000 firms to emerging-technology start-ups. The firm has grown from a regional firm to one with national scope. Butler Snow’s practice areas include the full range of business law and litigation services. Its attorneys come from diverse legal, business, and governmental backgrounds, bringing real-world experience and practical knowledge to each client they represent. The firm has represented clients in all 50 states and in DC, as well as internationally in more than 20 countries.

Previously, Franckiewicz was an attorney at Deutsch Kerrigan & Stiles. Franckiewicz earned a JD from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, a master’s degree in city planning, and an undergraduate degree in urban studies from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

 

92. Libby O'Neill
Attorney, Loeb & Loeb
Yale University

Libby O'Neill is an Attorney with Loeb & Loeb. She first joined the firm in 2015. Loeb & Loeb is a premier law firm focused on helping organizations and individuals innovate, grow, and evolve in a changing world. Their market-leading practice and industry teams deliver practical insight and strategic solutions in complex deals, high profile disputes, cutting-edge regulatory issues, and other matters critical to their clients’ success.

Previously, O'Neill was an attorney at Pattishall McAuliffe and before that a literary agent at InkWell Management. Earlier in her career she worked with William Morris Agency as a literary assistant. O'Neill earned a JD from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law and an undergraduate degree in English language and literature from Yale University.

 

93. Carolyn McAllister
Attorney & Partner, Quarles & Brady
Cornell University

Carolyn McAllister is an Attorney and Partner of Quarles & Brady. She first joined the company in 2020. For 125 years, Quarles & Brady has provided quality legal services to a wide range of industries on a national stage. It is a multidisciplinary AmLaw 200 legal services provider with approximately 475 attorneys practicing at the top of the profession in Chicago, Indianapolis, Madison, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Naples, Phoenix, Tampa, Tucson, and DC. Its national presence allows it to draw upon a group of highly skilled attorneys from across the country to ensure the right people are working on the clients'​ matters. The firm has extensive experience working with the full industrial gamut, from cutting-edge technology to traditional manufacturing, and it has developed an extensive network of relationships with international legal counsel around the world, allowing the firm to effectively handle important matters for its clients on a global scale.

Previously, McAllister was an attorney at Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren. McAllister earned a JD from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and an undergraduate degree in electrical and electronics engineering from Cornell University.

 

94. Dana Olesky
Chief Assistant County Attorney, Marion County
Florida State University

Dana Olesky began her professional career over 22 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Assistant County Attorney for Marion County. Marion County, Florida, is home to Silver Springs, one of the world's largest artesian springs, and dozens more, including Rainbow Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Silver Glen. Located in north central Florida along Interstate-75 and spanning 1,652 square miles, Marion County boasts a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas and includes the vast Ocala National Forest, Florida's second largest national forest.

Olesky first got her start in 2000 as a staff attorney at Liberty Mutual Insurance. From there, she went on to Langston, Hess, Bolton, Znosko and Helm, before eventually rising to become an associate attorney at Eraclides, Gelman, Hall, Indek, Goodman, Waters & Traverso, her most recent position prior to joining Marion County. Olesky graduated from Stetson University College of Law with a JD and from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree in political science and government.

 

95. Michael Cheltenham
Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Ingham County
University of Michigan

Michael Cheltenham is the Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney of Ingham County. Ingham County is an open, participatory government working to assure a safe, secure, healthy community where all individuals are enabled and encouraged to seek their highest potential. Ingham County is committed to assuring the identification and provision of services most important to its citizens in the achievement of its vision. Cheltenham has over 24 years of experience. He began his career in 1997.

Before joining Ingham County, Cheltenham was an adjunct professor at Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Earlier in his career he worked with the Office of Public Advocacy as a deputy public advocate. Cheltenham graduated from Wayne State University Law School with a JD and from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in English literature and history of art.

 

96. Michael Gallagher
Briefing Attorney, Morgan & Morgan
Georgetown University

Michael Gallagher began his professional career over 19 years ago. Today, he is the Briefing Attorney for Morgan & Morgan. Since 1988, Morgan & Morgan has been fighting for the people. Every client who walks through its doors is treated the same way. They believe that no one, no matter who they are, or where they’re from, should ever feel powerless when fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve. With over $10+ Billion dollars recovered for its clients, offices across 49 states and DC, and an army of over 800 attorneys, they are everywhere for everyone.

Gallagher first got his start in 2003 as a law clerk to the Honorable Richard A. Schell at
U.S. District Court. From there, he went on to Hays McConn, before eventually rising to become a counsel with The Webster Law Firm, his most recent position prior to joining Morgan & Morgan. Gallagher graduated from the University of Houston Law Center with a JD and from Georgetown University with an undergraduate degree in government.

 

97. Andrew Nick
Attorney, Fredrikson & Byron
University of Wisconsin-Madison

Andrew Nick is an Attorney for Fredrikson & Byron. He first joined the firm in 2010. At Fredrikson & Byron, they've built a reputation as the firm “where law and business meet” by bringing business acumen and entrepreneurial thinking to their work with clients, and by operating as business advisors and strategic partners as well as legal counselors. Fredrikson & Byron was founded in Minneapolis in 1948 and since then, they’ve grown into an international firm of over 300 attorneys in over 30 practice areas. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, they offer services to clients worldwide through its offices in Bismarck, Fargo, Des Moines, Mankato, St. Paul, Saltillo, Mexico, and Shanghai, China.

Nick earned a JD from the University of Wisconsin Law School and an undergraduate degree in political science, government, and psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

 

98. Jennifer Tuohy
Attorney, Stoel Rives
Stanford University

Jennifer Tuohy is an Attorney for Stoel Rives. Stoel Rives is a leading U.S. corporate and litigation law firm providing services to sophisticated business clients at every stage of their evolution. With 350 attorneys in seven states and Washington, DC, Stoel Rives is a nationally recognized leader in the energy and natural resources industries. From deals and disputes to compliance and counseling, clients turn to Stoel Rives for their most complex business challenges. Tuohy has over 16 years in the law practice industry. She began her career in 2006.

Before joining Stoel Rives, Tuohy was an associate at Cooley, and before that, a research assistant for the Stanford Political Science Department. Tuohy graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School with a JD in law and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in political science.

 

99. Franklin Greene
Managing Attorney, Zwicker & Associates
Princeton University

Franklin Greene is a Managing Attorney with Zwicker & Associates. Headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, Zwicker & Associates has been providing an extensive range of legal services to the financial services industry since 1991. The firm's practice is concentrated on the preservation and promotion of creditors'​ rights. Its services include bankruptcy, commercial collections, consumer collections and litigation. Zwicker maintains several offices in Florida and numerous other states. Greene has 20 years of experience. He began his career in 2002.

Before joining Zwicker & Associates, Greene was an attorney in complex litigation at Brock & Scott PLLC and before that an associate at McGuireWoods. Earlier in his career he worked with Jackson Lewis as an associate. Greene graduated from the University of South Carolina with a JD and from Princeton University with an undergraduate degree in history.

 

100. Kelly Bunch
Trial Attorney, EEOC
Carnegie Mellon University

Kelly Bunch is the Trial Attorney of EEOC. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency that was established via the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to administer and enforce federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person's race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. The laws apply to all types of work situations, including hiring, firing, promotions, harassment, training, wages, and benefits. Bunch has over 13 years of experience. She began her career in 2010.

Before joining EEOC, Bunch was a staff attorney at LAF and before that, a law and policy research associate at Burton Blatt Institute. Earlier in her career she worked with BlueLaw International as a disability law and policy consultant. Bunch graduated from Syracuse University with a JD and a master’s degree in education, and from Carnegie Mellon University with an undergraduate degree in psychology.