Highlighting a Year to Remember

OHIO WOMEN’S BAR ASSOCIATION NETWORK NEWSLETTER

Volume XXVI Issue No. 2 Spring 2017 Our purpose is to promote the leadership, advancement and interests of women attorneys through professional education, networking and the exchange of ideas between our members, local bar associations, business and the community. President’s Message Highlighting a Year to Remember: Looking to the Bright Future Ahead By Marilyn McClure-Demers, Associate General Counsel, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company The Ohio Women’s move forward, we remain mindful that and contributions. None of them Bar Association there is great hope and that indeed … would have been possible without the celebrated its 25th the best is yet to come. investment of outstanding women and Anniversary this To recap briefly, the year kicked off men in the law across the state. These year, and oh, what with an invigorating start at our Annual illustrate and underscore that there truly a remarkable year it Conference in May 2016, where we is unity in diversity. We also enjoyed has been for women heard from powerful national and joint OWBA/OWBF Board meetings, in the law! For the state leaders on issues, which included engagement and even underwent first time in our country’s history, a women’s leadership and important Continued on page 2 woman attorney rose to the top of diversity and inclusion topics. The the National ticket as a candidate Annual Conference and Luncheon for President of the United States. A enjoyed record-breaking attendance Inside this issue number of our members ran for office, and featured keynote speaker Paulette The OWBA and OWBF Annual Meeting and joined the bench, made partner and/or Brown, President of the American Conference...... 4 assumed new and different roles in their Bar Association. Our newly created Encouraging Diversity in the Law: Women in respective practices or professional Diversity and Inclusion Committee STEM and IP...... 5 journeys, ranging from admission to was busy with development of new Celebrating Women in Law...... 7 practice to increased leadership roles, mission critical initiatives such as to retirements. We gathered frequently our inaugural Diversity and Inclusion Highlighting Members of the OWBA Leadership to focus on important topics and to Sponsor and Champion Awards. It Institute - Meghan Hill...... 8 honor and recognize each other and was our privilege as a bar association OWBF Leadership Institue 2016-2017...... 9 those who sponsor and mentor us. We to honor Nationwide with the OWBA also welcomed many new members Diversity and Inclusion Champion Calling for 2017-2018 Leadership Institute and saw the largest OWBF Leadership Award; Anthony Sharett, Partner, Baker Member Applications!...... 10 Institute Class to date with 22 of the & Hostetler, LLP with the OWBA Private Movie Showing: Hidden Figures...... 10 best and brightest selected from across Diversity and Inclusion Sponsor Award; Ohio. The OWBA and OWBF worked and Carpenter Lipps & Leland with Taft Announces Industry Leading Policy for closely together as we partnered with the OWBA Family Friendly Award. Attorney Parental Leave...... 10 other diverse bar associations across We are very proud of these recipients Leading With Style: Cincinnati & Cleveland, the state and reached across public and and their varied contributions to the June 15, 2017...... 11 private sectors. legal profession and our association in In this year, we have also seen our mission to promote the leadership, Ashley L. Johns Joins Columbus Office of Reminger, Co., LPA...... 12 unprecedented opportunity and advancement and interests of women mandate for each of us to lead, engage attorneys. Finding Balance...... 13 and influence relationships to help Many wonderful, impactful and bring people together for an improved well-attended events also took place Shirley J. Christian Joins Youngstown Office of Reminger Co., LPA...... 14 profession, country and community. As this year, all of which were the result we contemplate this and recalibrate to of your engagement, commitment Sustaining/New Members...... 15 News Award recipients and friends of our association gathered to celebrate each other and recognize Yvette McGee Brown for her many contributions to OWBA and the profession with our highest award for excellence - our prestigious OWBA Founders’ Award. Despite having broken many barriers’ herself in roles ranging from in-house to private practice from Supreme Court Justice to partner, Yvette always finds time to answer our calls and to develop others in the profession. We were delighted to spend precious time with so many of you honoring Yvette and each other at our Celebrating Women in the Law event and are most grateful leadership and diversity training with thought-provoking content and for your continued support of our together where we were challenged talent. All without leaving the state. association and foundation. to embrace new ideas and focus and These included not only the Annual Another highlight this year was commit to two action items for the Conference but also our Statewide the work of our Ohio Women’s Bar coming year. My heartfelt appreciation CLE Event organized by our stellar Foundation which hosted several events goes out to the members of both Boards Government Subcommittee where and fundraisers including a raffle at the for their exemplary servant leadership unconscious bias, among other topics, OWBA Leading With Style Cincinnati as well as all to our committee chairs was featured. We also held a number of event, a Wine Down and Paint event and members. networking/relationship building events in Cincinnati and Cleveland, a Candle As an association, our membership around the state including the New Pouring event in Columbus, support increased by 20% and it has been a Admittee Reception in Cincinnati. from Kendra Scott sales proceeds at the true joy to see so many new faces In March 2017, our OWBA and New Admittee event in December and participating along side familiar OWBF past Presidents, Leadership the Wine Grab Fundraiser at the ones. Additionally, over 100 mentees Institute Alumnae, past Founder’s Continued on page 3 and 50 mentors participated in our OWBA Mentoring Program and, importantly, we have plenty of room to grow. Programs like this are critical to advancing both our association and diversity in the legal profession as a whole. To be successful it requires contributions from both parties, time and dedication from mentors and initiative and commitment from mentees. Congratulations to both for investing in the next generation of women in the law. To you sponsors who support women in the law in achieving our dreams through the pinnacles of leadership in our profession, we salute you and urge you to continue. This year we’ve offered over 40 CLE credits at our cumulative events

2 News Celebrating Women in the Law event. heights. Please offer her your support membership, and leadership; 3) The Foundation also organized a and congratulations. enhanced partnerships with other bar Holiday Appeal and Capital campaign. Statistics show that much remains associations; 4) partnerships across We thank all the generous individuals to be done to see the diversity in our public and private sectors; and 5) who donated. profession reflect the diversity of the empowerment/promotion of women The 2016-17 OWBF Leadership client/consumer base we serve. At this in the law and the role we do and Institute with its largest class to date same time, we see the need for many can play leading in these times. Our enjoyed a robust curriculum and critical conversations ahead to hear efforts were the result of the work and heard from notable legal and business and appreciate differences, to bridge commitment of incredible women leaders from across the state on them and to get things done. This who practice law and still find time to critical topics related to leadership, calls for courageous leadership in our dedicate to leading this organization communication, business and personal profession and in our communities forward and those courageous persons growth, development and branding. and country. Thus, the theme of our and organizations that support us. Class members will graduate with upcoming 2017 Annual Conference: This year has been an amazing over 25 CLE credits and join the Critical Conversations and Courageous journey – one that I shall always ranks of Leadership Institute Alumnae Leadership, which will be held on treasure – because of each of you. It across the state armed with enhanced May 11-12, 2017, at the Nationwide has truly been my honor and privilege leadership skills and training and Hotel and Conference Center (Lewis to serve as your President and I remain network preparing them to lead the Center, Ohio). The conference will deeply grateful to each of you for your way to the future. We truly appreciate feature two Fortune 500 General support and for your investment in those who invested in OWBA/OWBF Counsels as keynote speakers on each each other and in our association. and the class by sharing their time, of the two days of the conference: My wish for you now is the same expertise and insight with this year’s Lucy Helm, Executive Vice President as it was at the start, please make your class. We also look forward to another and General Counsel of Starbucks own difference, lift each other up and outstanding year in 2017-18 and ask and Carrie Hightman, Executive Vice congratulate one another. After all, that you consider and/or encourage President and Chief Legal Officer of no one knows better than we do the someone you know to apply to join NiSource, Inc. Both of these women difference we can make individually the upcoming Leadership Institute have shattered glass ceilings and we and collectively. You have my sincere class. Applications for the Leadership look forward to hearing from them. best wishes for many blessings in your Institute are now available on our We are also very pleased to welcome practices and the years to come. To you website and will be accepted until June local judges, lawyers, business and I dedicate one of my all time favorite 9, 2017. community leaders who will provide poems . . . As we prepare to turn the page for influential perspectives on important That Woman is a Success…. our association and foundation and topics for today’s lawyers within Who loves life and lives it to the fullest; look forward to another promising five CLE approved sessions. For Who has discovered and shared the year, we will experience another first, more information including course strengths and talents that as Lisa Kathumbi becomes the first descriptions, visit http://www.owba. are uniquely her own; African American woman to serve org/AnnualConference. Again this Who puts her best into each as President of our association in our year, we will also host our annual 26 years of existence. We must take Honoring Women in Government task and leaves each situation better a moment to celebrate this historical reception on the evening of May 11 than she found it; development for all that it represents at the conference where this year’s Who seeks and finds that which is to our profession and our association. reception will honor Justice Sharon L. beautiful in all people…and all things; Lisa, with whom I have worked closely Kennedy of the Ohio Supreme Court. Whose heart is full of love with on a variety of issues for a number The accomplishments and strides and warm with compassion; of years, is a wonderful person, very made this year all reflect action: 1) Who has found joy in living fine lawyer and committed member of positive advancement/growth for our and peace within herself. OWBA. There is no doubt that under association; 2) increased diversity – Barbara J. Burrow n her leadership, OWBA will soar to new and inclusion in our offerings,

3 News The OWBA and OWBF Annual Meeting and Conference The Ohio Women’s Bar Association and Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation invite you to join us for our two-day Annual Meeting and Conference at the Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center, Lewis Center, Annual Meeting & Conference Ohio. The conference theme, Critical Critical Conversations & Courageous Leadership Conversations and Courageous May 11-12, 2017 Leadership, will tackle some of Nationwide Hotel & Conference Center the most significant issues facing the legal profession, including the Thursday, May 11 1:00 pm Welcome – Conference Chair: Lisa M. Kathumbi, Bricker & Eckler persistent gender gap at the highest Keynote Speakers: 1:15-2:00 pm – A View from the Top: Lessons in Leadership levels of leadership. Kick-Off Speaker: Carrie Hightman, Chief Legal Officer, NiSource Lucy Helm Q & A Moderator: Grace Royalty, U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio The conference will begin on General Counsel, Starbucks 2:15-3:00 pm – A View from the Bench: Past, Present and Future | (1.25 hours of Professional Conduct CLE) Thursday, May 11, with Kick-off Moderator: Judge Laurel Beatty Blunt, Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Speaker Carrie Hightman, Vice Carrie Hightman Panelists: Judge Kim Wilson Burke, Hamilton County Drug Court; Judge Mary DeGenaro, Seventh District Court of Chief Legal Officer, Appeals of Ohio; Justice Judith L. French, Supreme Court of Ohio; Judge Benita Y. Pearson, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio; Judge Marilyn Zayas, First Appellate District of Ohio President and Chief Legal Officer NiSource of NiSource, Inc., speaking at 3:45-5:00 pm – The Art of Communication: Negotiating Salary and Promotion and GOLD SPONSORS Retaining Top Talent | (1.25 hours of CLE) the session titled, “A View from Moderator: Erin E. Rhinehart, Faruki Ireland Cox Rhinehart & Dusing Panelists: Andria M. Beckham, The Scotts Company; Dr. Rhonda Reagh, Ph.D, Reagh & Associates; Matthew A. Rich, the Top: Lessons in Leadership.” Katz Teller; Dawn R. Rosemond, Barnes & Thornburg The Conference will also feature 5:00-5:30 pm – A Report on Gender and the Law | (0.50 hours of CLE) local lawyers, judges, business and Nichole E. Dunn, The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio and Eleana Drakatos, Yacobozzi | Drakatos community leaders as panelists for SILVER SPONSORS 6:00-8:00 pm – Honoring Women in Government Reception Honored Guest: Justice Sharon L. Kennedy, Supreme Court of Ohio the following CLE sessions: ● A View from the Bench: Past, Friday, May 12 8:45-10:00 am – General Counsels Speak: Top Priorities for 2017 and Beyond | (1.25 hours of CLE) BRONZE SPONSORS Present and Future (1.25 Attorney Barnes & Thornburg OhioHealth Moderator: Michelle Proia Roe, Thirty-One Gifts CBA Managing Partners’ Porter Wright Morris Panelists: Robert Bostrom, Abercrombie & Fitch; Susan DiMickele, National Church Residences; Mark S. Howard, Nationwide Professional Conduct CLE hours) Diversity Initiative & Arthur Insurance; Angelique Strong Marks, MAHLE Industries; Sheryl Creed Maxfield, Office of the Ohio Attorney General Dinsmore & Shohl Roetzel & Andress ● The Art of Communication: Ice Miller LLP Squire Patton Boggs 10:00-11:15 am OCLC Vorys, Sater, Seymour Reaping the Benefits of Diversity & Inclusion: The Business and Economic Return and Pease Negotiating Salary and Promotion Ohio State Bar Association (1.25 hours of CLE) CLE SPONSORS Moderator: Marilyn T. McClure-Demers, Nationwide Insurance and Retaining Top Talent (1.25 Panelists: Donald M. Casey Jr., Cardinal Health; Jeffrey B. Jones, Littler Mendelson; Myra L. McKenzie-Harris, Walmart; CLE hours) formerly Thacker Martinsek LPA Barb Smoot, Women for Economic and Leadership Development; Kimberly S. Amrine, Frost Brown Todd A RUNG 11:30 am -1:30 pm – Annual Meeting Luncheon: Luncheon Speaker: Lucy Helm, General Counsel, Starbucks ● A Report on Gender and the Law Swearing-In Ceremony: The Honorable Nathaniel R. Jones, U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit (Retired) ABOVE.GOVERNMENT (0.50 CLE hours) RECEPTION: 1:30-3:00 pm – Networking Reception

TRZLAW.COM RECEPTION: ● General Counsels Speak: Top Thacker Robinson Zinz LPA salutes the contributions of Paulette Brown and of all women in the practice of law. For more information or to register: Legal Priorities for 2017 and LUNCHEON GIFT: CLEVELAND, OH TOLEDO, OH NAPLES, FL Sponsorship216.456.3840 419.931.6910 Opportunities 239.591.6685 Still Available www.OWBA.org/AnnualConference Beyond (1.25 CLE hours) ● Reaping the Benefits of Diversity & Inclusion: The Business and Reception on the evening of May 11, Executive Vice President and General Economic Return (1.25 CLE and will feature Justice Sharon L. Counsel of Starbucks, will deliver the hours) Kennedy, Supreme Court of Ohio, as Conference Luncheon address. In accordance with the the events key speaker. To view the full conference Conference the OWBA Government On Friday, May 12, the OWBA details and register online please Subcommittee will host their annual and OWBF will host its Annual visit our website at www.owba.org/ Honoring Women in Government Meeting Luncheon where Lucy Helm, AnnualConference. n

4 News Encouraging Diversity in the Law: Women in STEM and IP By Rachel A. Smoot According to the a minority in STEM education will propel women to excel and are American Bar programs and careers. While women crucial to breaking down stereotypes. Association, as make up nearly half the overall of January 2017, workforce, female employees fill up 2. Mentor, mentor, mentor approximately 36% of fewer than 25% of STEM jobs, and Always start out assuming a young attorneys are female. according to the U.S. Department of woman is interested in STEM. Ask This number is probably of no Commerce, these numbers have not about her classes and what topics surprise to female practitioners. changed much in the past decade. interest her. Encourage her to seek However, while there is this disparity Undoubtedly, there is a disconnect out teachers and advisors in school between genders, what is even more somewhere between STEM who can encourage and support her. shocking is the estimated number pathways and women and to ignore Most importantly, ask how she views of women working in intellectual this disconnect would also ignore “science” and “scientists,” and work property. The exact number of approximately half of the future to show her that STEM plays a role women working in the intellectual workforce. While people unfamiliar in every aspect of our lives. property sector is unknown, an with STEM may not see the For women in the workforce, estimate available through the importance of emphasizing STEM demonstrate how to succeed in the United States Patent and Trademark studies and careers, encouraging workplace and give them a system Office (USPTO) identifies18% of women in STEM will help us all. of support. In a predominantly male its registered patent attorneys to be As a nation, particularly as a group field, female intellectual property female. of legal professionals, we should attorneys are a much more apparent Of course, registered patent address this disconnect to tap into minority and could use peer, mentor, attorneys are not the only attorneys a massive pool of people who can and sponsor support to promote who can practice patent law—an help us meet the problem of not professional development. attorney does not have to sit for the having enough female scientists and USPTO Registration Examination engineers. Through these efforts, 3. Encourage primary school in order to work with trademarks, we could assist the nation’s existing STEM-related activities and copyrights, trade secrets, or even gender and wage gaps. organizations litigate patents. The USPTO’s There has to be an effort to Girls typically like to work in groups estimated 18% is very hard indicator start discouraging any negative and may respond better to a group that in the world of patent law, stereotypes of studying and working experience. All girls sports teams the disparity between genders is in STEM, including the law. Below and organizations like Girls Who even more evident. So the question are several easy steps you can take to Code and FIRST (For Inspiration remains: why? encourage women in STEM, whether and Recognition of Science and In order to sit for the USPTO or not you are involved in STEM. Technology) show social aspects Registration Exam, an applicant must Encouragement is necessary and and encourage collaboration while have a degree, or at least a strong urgently needed. engaging in competition. documented background in a natural science or hard science. Essentially, 1. Show support 4. If you are a woman working in applicants have studied some subset It seems self-explanatory, but a STEM field, share your story of Science, Technology, Engineering, showing support for your female Young women need successful and Mathematics (STEM). co-workers, family, and friends is female role models in the STEM Unfortunately, women are fundamental. Support and enthusiasm Continued on page 6

5 News community, not only to serve as degrees in the subjects they’ll teach. The AAUW also promotes STEM inspiration but also to serve as a While NMS seeks to improve programs for girls intended to pique support system. The attrition rate of the number of all underrepresented interest and expand girls’ knowledge women in STEM is still quite high, students in STEM fields, NMS and abilities. and a consistent support system may also recognizes the importance of help to decrease that rate. tailoring STEM teachings so as to Recently I sat down with one appeal to more girls. of my oldest and closest friends. “We grew up weird,” she said to 5. Support an organization that Women in Engineering Proactive me. I paused to think about it, and helps women join and stay in Network (WEPAN) STEM careers realized she was right but only in The following organizations represent WEPAN seeks to make the the sense that we grew up never organizations working toward atmosphere of engineering in thinking women in STEM was out of advancing gender equality in STEM college and beyond more amenable the ordinary. We experienced early studies and careers. to women. WEPAN’s network encouragement from our families, currently consists of 150 college and schools and each other and were all National Girls Collaborative Project university campuses that reach over actively involved in STEM-related (NGCP) 42,000 female engineering students. activities. Ultimately, my core group The goals of the NGCP are to On average, WEPAN institutional of female friends from high school maximize access to shared resources members have an average 15% higher all have sought higher education within projects, and with public enrollment of women in engineering degrees in hard sciences: a pending and private sector organizations and than non-member campuses. PhD in biochemistry, a pending PhD in physics, an M.D. (currently a institutions interested in expanding Million Women Mentors (MWM) girls’ participation in STEM; radiology resident), and a J.D./M.S. strengthen capacity of existing MWM supports the engagement of in biochemistry. and evolving projects by sharing one million Science, Technology, There is a need to normalize exemplary practice research and Engineering and Math (STEM) women in STEM. If we work to program models, outcomes, and mentors (male and female) to decrease attrition, increase interest products; and use the leverage of increase the interest and confidence and support and encourage women a network and the collaboration of girls and women to persist and studying, working, or thinking about of individual girl-serving STEM succeed in STEM programs and working in STEM, undoubtedly the programs to create the tipping point careers. effect on the legal gender gap will be significant. It is high past time that for gender equity in STEM. American Association of people realize “weird” must be the Organizations across the University Women (AAUW) new normal. n country are selected to host local Founded in 1881, the AAUW Collaboratives, varying in focus areas is one of the oldest and leading Rachel A. Smoot is an associate and populations served. Currently, voices for promoting equity and attorney at Fay Sharpe LLP, where 33 Collaboratives, serving 41 states, education for women and girls in all she practices patent, trademark, and facilitate collaboration between areas, including educational, social, copyright law. She earned her law 22,800 organizations that serve 16.35 economic and political. Specifically, degree from Case Western Reserve million girls. with respect to STEM, the AAUW University simultaneously with her National Math and Science Initiative conducts extensive field research to Master of Science in Biochemistry (NMS) determine and examine the barriers degree and her undergraduate NMS seeks to improve the way that are presented to girls and degrees in Molecular Genetics and STEM subjects are taught by women. Schools and corporations Psychology from The Ohio State increasing the number of high school can then take these studies and make University. She may be reached at [email protected]. science and math teachers with changes to improve inclusiveness.

6 News Celebrating Women in the Law Event On March 1, 2017, the OWBA presented to an outstanding attorney and OWBF had the opportunity to who has contributed to the legal gather with OWBA Founders’, Past profession, has rendered services Presidents, Leadership Institute to improve the administration of Alumnae and other women and men justice, and has helped pave the way in the law to celebrate and honor for women in the legal profession. In our 2017 Founders’ Award recipient addition, the award acknowledges the Yvette McGee Brown, former recipient’s willingness to give back Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court, to the legal community, as well as the and current Partner and Partner- general public, while demonstrating in-Charge of Diversity, Inclusion professional excellence. and Advancement at Jones Day, This event was a tremendous Columbus. It was our true pleasure to success thanks to the support of our honor Yvette and highlight her many generous sponsors: Gold Sponsor - accomplishments in the presence of Jones Day, Silver Sponsors - Bricker close to 100 influential women and & Eckler, Dinsmore & Shohl, men in the law. Nationwide and Squire Patton Boggs. The Founders’ Award is OWBA’s We also wish to thank all of those highest recognition for professional who participated in the Wine Grab excellence. Established in 1998, the fundraiser hosted by the OWBF, first recipient of the award was one of which made close to $700 for the OWBA Founders, Justice Alice Robie Foundation. n Resnick. The Founders’ Award is

7 News Highlighting Members of the OWBA Leadership Institute In each issue we will highlight graduates of the OWBA Leadership Institute. This quarter we will highlight Meghan Hill from the 2014-2015 Class. Applications for the Leadership Institute are now available on our website and will be accepted until June 9, 2017. If you are interested in applying to the Leadership Institute, contact OWBA at admin@ owba.org.

Meghan Hill, Squire meeting so many women practicing Do you stay in contact with anyone Patton Boggs in various industries and areas of the from your class? law. Absolutely! Several people from What did you enjoy my class are actively involved in the the most about What is something that you learned OWBA and the OWBF and I love the the Leadership that you implemented into your opportunity to catch up with them at Institute? career/life? events and activities throughout the The Leadership Though admittedly painful, the year. Institute provided an excellent session on public speaking was opportunity for me to become more extremely helpful. Public speaking is What piece of advice would involved in the OWBA. I’m now an a must for leaders in my profession, you give to someone who is just At-Large Trustee, and feel that my and I’ve implemented the tips and beginning the Leadership Institute participation in the Institute gave me strategies provided at the Leadership or who is considering applying? a more in-depth understanding of Institute, which has helped to boost If you are considering applying, go organization and how I could become my confidence and enhance my for it! It is necessary to make a more active member. I also enjoyed reputation as a presenter. Continued on page 9

Committed to the Advancement of Women Lawyers

We join the OWBA in their mission to support the advancement of women in the legal profession and promote the welfare of all women in the community. We admire and value the OWBA’s commitment to women and are proud to be a long-time partner of the organization.

46 Offices in 21 Countries squirepattonboggs.com Local Connections. Global Influence.

8 News investments in yourself if you’re Where do you work? my practice is devoted to helping looking to advance to leadership roles Squire Patton Boggs in Columbus executives with employment law in your career. And of course, CLE strategy to advance their business credit is a great bonus! Do you specialize or have a niche? goals. I represent companies in many areas What is your dream job? How did participating in the of employment law. My practice Easy question! I’d be a Federal Judge. Leadership Institute change you includes complex wage and hour Shaping the law would be incredibly and/or make you better? counseling and audits, executive and rewarding, as would be the ability to The personality and leadership expatriate contracts, and workplace positively impact people’s lives, often analysis helped me to be more self- safety counseling and litigation. without them even knowing it. aware of my communication style and If you weren’t a lawyer, what would What would you like to tell us traits. It also gave me insight into the you be? about yourself (i.e. your family, communication styles of colleagues I have always considered obtaining hobbies, etc.) and clients, and how I can adjust my a MBA, so probably a business I’m married to my high school style to better complement theirs. executive. I love that my profession sweetheart and am raising my two This has been invaluable as I continue as an employment lawyer combines children in the neighborhood I grew to grow in my career. business and law, as a large part of up in. n OWBF Leadership Institute 2016-2017 The Ohio Women’s Bar – Michelle Krall, DSW Foundation officially completed Inc. – Lori Zancourides, its 2016-17 Leadership Wendy’s Corporation – Institute year in March, which Judy Boderhamer and served its largest class to date Lee Paczesniak, Revenue with a total of 22 members. Resources – Karen Hough, This year’s course topics ImprovEdge – Justice included Rainmaking and Judith L. French, Supreme Business Development, the Court of Ohio – Yvette Role of Leadership, Effective McGee Brown, JonesDay – Communication, Public Justice Sharon L. Kennedy, Speaking, Professional and Supreme Court of Ohio – Online Branding and Effective Sasha Blaine, Ohio Twelfth Leadership, and featured District Court of Appeals influential leaders and presenters – Margaret Lockhart, from various business and legal Marshall & Melhorn, backgrounds. 2016-17 Leadership Institute Class Members enjoying LLC – Marilyn McClure- The OWBF Leadership a Happy Hour after their final class meeting, March 10, Demers, Nationwide – Erin Institute would like to 2017. E. Rhinehart, Faruki Ireland recognize and thank our Cox Rhinehart & Dusing, 2016-17 session speakers: P.L.L. – Jeff Dennis, Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter – Jason Beehler, Kegler Brown Hill + Linda Bluso, Edgepointbc – James (Jim) Thomas, Ritter – Kailee Goold, Cardinal Health – Judge Jennifer L. Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP – Erin Hawk, Brunner, Tenth District Court of Appeals – Tiffany Adams, Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP – Elizabeth Kessler, Cincinnati Etiquette & Leadership Institute – Valoria JonesDay – JoAnn Strasser, Thompson Hine – Pat Gajda, Hoover, Valoria Hoover Law Offices – The Honorable Brouse McDowell, LPA – Andrean Horton, A Schulman Betty Montgomery, Montgomery Consulting Group n 9 News Calling for 2017- Taft Announces Industry Leading 2018 Leadership Policy for Attorney Parental Leave Institute Member Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio; Chicago, Ill.; Indianapolis, Ind.; Covington, Ky.; Applications! Ann Arbor, Mich.; and Phoenix, The OWBF is now accepting Ariz. applications for the 2017-18 Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP Leadership Institute. Applications are announces a new industry leading a modern, flexible and inclusive available online at: www.owba.org/ parental leave policy for its workplace.” leadershipinstituteapplication. For attorneys. Effective immediately, For attorneys, the firm’s more information please contact the the firm is providing all Taft new parental paid leave policy OWBA and OWBF office at admin@ attorneys with 16 weeks of paid is among the most expansive owba.org by calling (866) 932-6922. n parental leave for birth or adoptive packages offered among law parents. firms. Per the Association of The policy applies regardless of Legal Administrators (ALA) 2016 Private Movie gender, marital status or primary Compensation Survey, private versus non-primary caregiver law firms in the U.S. offer on Showing: Hidden status. The only requirement under average eight weeks of parental the policy is that a Taft attorney be leave for primary caregivers Figures one of the parents of a newborn or and four weeks for non-primary caregivers. Comparatively, firms The Ohio newly adopted child. Paid parental in the Midwest offer on average Women’s Bar leave is available to Taft attorneys Association from the first day of employment eight weeks of parental leave for partnered with at Taft. primary caregivers and six weeks the Black Layers The new policy is a significant for non-primary caregivers. Association increase from the firm’s previous “There is tremendous of Cincinnati attorney package, which offered momentum underway at Taft to (BLAC) and 12 weeks of paid leave to a Taft ensure a modern workplace culture Cincinnati Bar attorney who is the child’s primary that is truly inclusive, flexible and Association caregiver and two weeks of paid supportive of a strong work/life Women’s Law leave to a Taft attorney who is not balance,” said Sonya S. Jindal, a Committee the child’s primary caregiver. Taft partner and co-chair (along (CBA) to host a private showing of “We significantly enhanced with Taft Partner Tracy Betz) the movie Hidden Figures, about our parental leave policy in of the firm’s recently launched the African American women our continuing effort to be the Gender Advancement Committee. mathematicians at NASA, on Friday, employer of choice in each of “This very generous family- February 3, 2017. This sold-out event our markets and to support our friendly policy, together with other was a smashing success thanks to attorneys with this commitment initiatives including our inaugural coordination and support of leaders to family,” said Taft’s Chairman firm-wide Women’s Symposium with the OWBA, BLAC and CBA. and Managing Partner Robert later this month, reflects the We would like to extend sincere J. Hicks. “This is one of several firm’s significant commitments thanks to the guests that participated initiatives we are undertaking to to retaining, developing and in the viewing of this film and the ensure a good work/life balance advancing talent among our networking dinner that followed. n for our attorneys and to promote attorneys.” n

10 News Leading With Style: Cincinnati & Cleveland, June 15, 2017 The OWBA will be hosting its annual Leading With Style The OWBA is proud to announce that our Leading With (LWS) event in both Cincinnati and Cleveland on June 15, Style event is coming back to Cleveland! This re-vamped 2017. event will be hosted at the Lockkeppers – a sophisticated, The 2017 LWS Cincinnati theme is Modeling fine dining establishment in Cleveland. LWS Cleveland Leadership, and will be hosted at the Transept in Over- will also feature local beauty and lifestyle vendors and an The-Rhine (OTR), Cincinnati. This downtown, chic venue opportunity to support the Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation is the perfect backdrop for the events fashion show, and and the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland with a raffle. will feature local vendors and raffle items to support the Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation as in years past. LWS Cleveland Event Details Event Details: LWS Cincinnati Event Details Thursday, June 15, 2017 Event Details: Lockkeppers (8001 Rockside Rd, Cleveland, OH 44125) Thursday, June 15, 2017 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM The Transept (1205 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202) Register online at www.owba.org/events 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Sponsorship opportunities still available! Contact the Register online at www.owba.org/events OWBA office at [email protected] or (866) 932-6922 for Sponsorship opportunities still available! Contact the more information. n OWBA office at [email protected] or (866) 932-6922 for more information.

CINCINNATI CLEVELAND

11 News Ashley L. Johns Joins Columbus Office of Reminger, Co., LPA Reminger Co., LPA is pleased to for her advocacy skills by the American Bar announce that Ashley L. Johns has Association. She was also a Staff Editor for joined its Columbus, Ohio office. Ashley the Ohio State Journal of Criminal Law, a focuses her legal practice primarily on member of the Ohio State Moritz College of medical malpractice defense. Law National Trial Team, and a legal intern in Prior to joining Reminger, Ashley was numerous offices including: the Supreme Court a Union County Assistant Prosecuting of Ohio, the United States Attorney’s Office for Attorney for three years. In that capacity, the Southern District of Ohio, and the Columbus Ashley handled felony and juvenile City Attorney’s Office. prosecutions and represented the Union She is a member of various professional County Department of Job and Family Services, Children Services Division. organizations including the Ohio State Bar Ashley is also a presenter for the Ohio Attorney General Association, the Ohio State Women’s Bar Interpersonal Violence Response Training Team. Association, and the Columbus Bar Association. Ashley While earning her J.D. from The Ohio State University can be reached by emailing [email protected] or by Moritz College of Law, Ashley was nationally recognized calling (614) 232.2413. n

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12 News Finding Balance By Claudia S. Herrington Balance is an elusive concept for many of us. life change – not a diet – but a life change. I jumped in We struggle with it. We strive for it. Up until and have been very discipline (and let’s be honest, I am recently, I was convinced I was the worse at not disciplined about my nutrition or fitness). I adjusted it. I decided 2017 was the year I was going my diet, adopted a plan to follow, exercise regularly and to find balance. I decided what I wanted to have a network of supportive, like-minded professionals. focus on the most is getting my energy back, The plan and the support have made all the difference, eating better and losing weight. To be honest and share and I feel great. I want and feel compelled to share with my vulnerability, I floundered through January. I did not the women in the OWBA because there are so many of have a plan. I was on the verge of repeating the same us who are running at warp speed, trying to be everything past mistakes. Then a non-profit organization approached to our family, employers, friends and community, and my husband and me with an opportunity to coach cancer are not making ourselves a priority. In 8 weeks I have survivors to run/walk a 5k. I REALLY wanted to do this, lost 13 pounds. I have more energy than ever, and I but was handwringing about not being able to keep up. I have greater concentration, which has resulted in higher made the decision to participate, but now was desperate to productivity. If you feel like you have tried everything, get in shape. No pressure, right? let’s talk. I would like to hear your journey, because I A friend shared her success with me, and I thought, believe with new tools you can attain and sustain your “Why not me?” She really spent time listening to me. health and fitness goals. Please feel free to contact me at She suggested steps that would lead to a transformative [email protected]. n GREAT PEOPLE make us a

Nationwide is proud to support the Ohio Women’s Bar Association. We’re committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture. These values are part of what make us More Than a Business® and a great place to work. We continue to advocate for women and the difference they make in the lives of our members, communities and each other. Learn more at nationwide.com/careers.

13 News Shirley J. Christian Joins Youngstown Office of Reminger Co., LPA Reminger Co., LPA is pleased to While announce that Shirley J. Christian Shirley served has joined its Youngstown, Ohio office. as a Judge of Shirley has been a trial lawyer for 28 Common Pleas years and is a former Judge in Mahoning Court, she reduced the backlog of cases by County Common Pleas Court. She has 40%, presided over thousands of civil and successfully defended doctors, hospitals, criminal cases and multiple jury trials, as nursing homes, and other health care well as the largest single indictment drug providers in wrongful death, brain injury, case in the history of Mahoning County. birth injury and catastrophic disability She worked to educate the public about cases. Her experience covers almost the Court, and also started a Veterans every recognized medical specialty. Treatment Court at the felony level in In addition to her medical malpractice Mahoning County. experience, Shirley has represented employers in Shirley can be reached by emailing schristian@ discrimination, wrongful termination and other lawsuits. reminger.com or by calling (330) 744.1311. n

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Dinsmore stands with the Ohio Women’s Bar Association and Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation in congratulating Founder’s Award recipient, Yvette McGee Brown, for her significant contributions to the field of law. Learn more at dinsmore.com.

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14 News Sustaining Members Deborah Akers-Parry Melissa Graham-Hurd Catherine Martineau Alice Rickel Wolf and Akers LPA Melissa Graham-Hurd & MacMillan Sobanski & Todd, Alice Rickel & Assoc Associates, LLC LLC Randal Bloch Grace Royalty Randal S. Bloch, Esq. Nita Hanson Amanda Martinsek U. S. District Court Dinsmore & Shohl LLP Ice Miller LLP Southern District of Ohio Magistrate Judge Stephanie Bowman Kathleen Havener Marilyn McClure-Demers Nancy Sabol U. S. District Court The Havener Law Firm LLC Nationwide Insurance The Ohio Northern University Southern District of Ohio Pettit College of Law Claudia Herrington Jean McQuillan Janet Burnside JobsOhio Case Western Reserve Laura Sanom Cuyahoga County Common Valoria Hoover University School of Law Faruki Ireland & Cox P.L.L. Pleas Court Valoria Hoover Law Offices, LLC Stacey Meloun Michele Shuster Angela Courtwright Jennifer J. Jacquemain Agee Clyer Mitchell & Mac Murray Petersen & Ice Miller LLP Oldham Company, LLC Portman Shuster Sherri Dahl, Esq. Lisa Kathumbi Susannah Muskovitz Carrie Starts Dahl Law LLC Littler Mendelson Muskovitz & Lemmerbrock, Reminger Co., LPA LLC Judge Patricia Delaney Aneca Lasley Patricia Walker 5th District Court of Appeals Squire Patton Boggs Denise Platfoot Lacey Walker & Jocke University of Dayton School Jennifer Elleman Magistrate Judge Linde Webb of Law Lexis Nexis Karen L. Litkovitz Lydy & Moan, LTD U.S. District Court, Southern Julie Rabin Amanda Gatti Kate Wexler District of Ohio Rabin & Rabin Co LPA Reminger Co., LPA Brouse McDowell, LPA Helen Mac Murray Amber Richter Valerie Gerlach Mac Murray Petersen & The Matre Law Group Gerlach & Gerlach Shuster

New OWBA Members (as of January 31, 2017)

Abby Chermely Jessica Ismond Eleanor Schalnat Marissa Waters United States District Court Law School Student, Vora Ventures & Association Law School Student, Willamette University College of Corporate Counsel University of Dayton College Stefanie Coe of Law of Law MPW Industrial Services Meredith Shell Melinda McAfee Abercrombie & Fitch Kristina Dahmann Abercrombie & Fitch Ice Miller LLC Amanda Morris Jordan Dinsmore Law School Student, Ohio Law School Student, Case State Moritz College of Law Western Reserve University School of Law Jennifer Nelson Carney Brigid Heid Bricker & Eckler LLP Eastman & Smith Ltd.

15 OWBA board members News President Marilyn McClure-Demers President-Elect Lisa Kathumbi Congratulations. Vice President Distinction is always confined to the few. Jones Day is pleased to support the Emily Wilcheck Ohio Women’s Bar Association and the Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation and Secretary applauds their mission: to accelerate the advancement of women lawyers as Judge Mary DeGenaro leaders in the profession and to facilitate their service to the community. Treasurer Tara Aschenbrand We congratulate our friend and partner, Yvette McGee Brown, Immediate Past President as she receives the 2017 Founder’s Award—the OWBA’s Grace Royalty highest recognition for professional excellence. Executive Director Kimberly Fantaci Trustees Ann Schooley Erin Rhinehart Nancy Sabol Judge Marie Hoover Nita Hanson Marguerite Zinz Judge Michelle Miller Rachel Smoot Magistrate Sharon Dennis Mary Jane Trapp Mary (Mimi) Geswein Judge Katarina Cook Melissa Schuett Sherri Dahl Karen Adinolfi Meghan Hill Kate Wexler OWBA/OWBF Liaison Vanessa Nichols Past Presidents Pamela Nagle Hultin (92-93) Mary Lynn Readey (93-94) Barbara J. Smith (94-95) Linde Hurst Webb (95-96) Laura A. Hauser (96-97) Kirsti Talikka Garlock (97-98) Maria A. Kortan-Sampson (98-99) 2500 Lawyers. 44 Locations. 5 Continents. www.jonesday.com Jami S. Oliver (99-00) Helen MacMurray (00-01) Debra J. Horn (01-02) Suzanne M. Nigro (02-03) Follow us on Social Media Michelle J. Sheehan (03-04) The OWBA and OWBF can be found on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Halle M. Hebert (04-05) Join our groups, like us and connect to us to share information and connect Monique B. Lampke (05-06) Pamela D. Houston (06-07) with women attorneys across Ohio. Susan E. Peterson (07-08) http://www.facebook.com/OhioWomensBarAssociation Michele A. Shuster (08-09) Lisa R. House (09-10) http://www.facebook.com/ohioWBF Valoria C. Hoover (10-11) Jennifer Breech Rhoads (11-12) http://www.twitter.com/OWBA Michelle Proia Roe (12-13) http://www.twitter.com/OhioWBF Mag. Judge Stephanie K. Bowman (13-14) Claudia S. Herrington (14-15) http://www.linkedin.com/Group/OhioWomen’sBarAssociation Grace Royalty (15-16) 16