WOMEN’S BAR ASSOCIATION NETWORK NEWSLETTER

Volume XIX Issue No. 1 Winter 2011 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. Ohio Women’s Bar Association president gives remarks at the swearing-in ceremony for Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor Below is the speech given by Ohio Well, believe me, it is all those things Women’s Bar Association President Val - and more. Honor. Privilege. Pleasure. oria C. Hoover at the swearing in cere - But today Chief Justice O’Connor, mony for Chief Justice Maureen members of the court, honored guests, O’Connor on Jan. 7, 2011, in Columbus, my presence here today is a time of joy! Ohi o. To view the ceremony, go to the Joy to be saying a few words in honor following link: www.ohiochannel.org. of my bar colleague, a role model and It is customary for anyone speaking at my friend, Maureen O’Connor, as she these great occasions to begin her re - makes history and becomes the 10th marks with the phrase, “it is my great chief justice of the Ohio Supreme Court. honor” or “my rare privilege,” or per - (Continued on page 2) haps “I have the distinct pleasure.” Inside this issue Calendar of Events ...... 3 McGee Brown sworn in as first OWBA Founders’ gala to honor Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor ....6 African-American woman on OWBF scholarship ...... 7 state’s highest court OWBA Sustaining Members ...... 8 Members in the News ...... 8 During a momentous week for the Governor Strickland administered the Ohio judiciary, Yvette McGee Brown oath of office to McGee Brown during Welcome new OWBA members ..10 was sworn in as the first African- a public swearing-in ceremony at the OWBA honors central Ohio’s American woman justice in the 207- King Arts Complex in the Columbus newest women attorneys ...... 12 year history of the Supreme Court of neighborhood where she was raised. Ohio. Her swearing-in came after Jus - More than 750 people from across New lawyers gather in Cincinnati ..13 tice Maureen O'Connor took the oath Ohio gathered to celebrate the historic Cincinnati rainmaking seminar .....14 of office the day before, becoming the event. McGee Brown follows former Legislative Committee update ...... 16 first woman to serve as Ohio's chief Justices Robert M. Duncan and Lloyd justice. Governor ap - O. Brown as the third African-Ameri - Age discrimination: pointed former judge McGee Brown to can member of Ohio’s high court and It’s all relevant ...... 18 the Supreme Court in early December is the eighth woman to serve on the Family Friendly Award ...... 20 when the seat became open after Jus - Court. With her appointment, the Court tice O’Connor was elected as Chief has its third ever female majority. Charitable giving and volunteerism in Justice in November. (Continued on page 4) your networking strategy ...... 22 OWBA board members President’s Message (Continued from page 1) President Valoria C. Hoover I said my friend, as Being first or among the first has always Chief Justice O’Con - been the least of it. Performing at the level President-Elect Jennifer B. Rhoads nor has on occasion of the very best in her calling is the one jokingly lamented and only expectation she set for herself at Vice President that when she be - every turn. And Maureen has met that Angela M. Courtwright came a judge she lost goal, surpassed that goal on each occasion. her first name as She may have been breaking through ceil - Secretary friends no longer ings with regularity, but she’s done that Amanda Martinsek called her Maureen with both feet planted firmly on the floor: Valoria C. Hoover but Judge. Today, I sure, steady and solid in her professional - Treasurer will take a small liberty and occasionally Denise Platfoot Lacey ism, integrity, diligence and commitment. refer to Chief Justice O’Connor as Mau - Immediate Past President reen. I have had the great honor (and yes, I’ll also use the phrase “rare privilege” be - Lisa R. House To be sure I also said, “Makes history.” cause it fits) of seeing these qualities in And indeed this is a day to mark in history, Trustees Maureen first-hand, as her career has for Maureen, for members of my organiza - Grace Royalty flourished and her extraordinary leader - tion, the Ohio Women’s Bar Association, Laura Sanom ship emerged. I saw those qualities in the for everyone in our profession, for this Erica Sherrick days when I observed Magistrate and Court and for the great State of Ohio. Judge Patricia A. Delaney then, Judge Maureen O’Connor on the Joyce Anagnos This isn’t the first time Maureen has made trial bench in Summit County and as Ad - Judge M. Mary DeGenaro Veena Khanna history in her career. Nor is there any rea - ministrative Judge during a time when I Jennifer J. Jacquemain son to think it should be the last. Certainly was working there with the Ninth District Laura G. Kuykendall this state and nation have seen women at - Court of Appeals. From my time as a staff C. Lynne Day torneys make history—in reaching the pin - attorney at the Ohio Supreme Court, I fol - Magistrate Judge Stephanie K. Bowman nacle. Among them: Nettie Cronise Lutes, lowed her career as she was elected Sum - Mellissia Fuhrmann Ohio’s first woman attorney; Justice Flo - mit County Prosecutor O’Connor and Carrie Gutowski rence Allen, first woman on the Ohio built a record of service and tenacity that Carrie A. Masters Supreme Court; led to statewide leadership roles as Lieu - Erin Holmes ; U.S. Attorney General tenant Governor of Ohio and Director of Michelle M. Proia Janet Reno; Justice Sandra Day O’Connor; Public Safety, a position that perhaps was Justice Sonia Sotomayor; and most re - the most demanding cabinet role in the Past Presidents cently, Justice Yvette McGee Brown. months following 9-11. Pamela Nagle Hultin (92-93) Mary Lynn Readey (93-94) But I am certain that history was never So it was no surprise to me or to anyone Barbara J. Smith (94-95) the first thing on the mind for any of who had witnessed her performance in Linde Hurst Webb (95-96) those women. It wasn’t on Maureen’s those roles to see Maureen elected (by Laura A. Hauser (96-97) mind when she crossed important thresh - sizeable margins) to two terms as Justice Kirsti Talikka Garlock (97-98) olds earlier in her career or for the one of the Ohio Supreme Court. And now Maria A. Kortan-Sampson (98-99) she’s crossing today. with another strong electoral showing as Jami S. Oliver (99-00) the overwhelming choice for Ohio’s high - The remarkable story of her truly re - Helen MacMurray (00-01) est judicial office. Debra J. Horn (01-02) markable career isn’t one about history Suzanne M. Nigro (02-03) or about being among the first or even The latest step in her career may sound a Michelle J. Sheehan (03-04) being the very first. It has always been bit grand to some, but being grand (like Halle M. Hebert (04-05) about being the best. About being a doing something just to be the first) is not Monique B. Lampke (05-06) leader. About being the one who takes on Maureen’s style. In fact, she has shown a Pamela D Houston (06-07) an assignment with the determination and steadfast determination as Supreme Court Susan E. Petersen (07-08) strength of character and professional ex - Justice and now, as Chief Justice not to Michele A. Shuster (08-09) perience to do that job better than anyone wall herself up in some judicial ivory Lisa R. House (09-10) else. And then exceeding even those tower. She doesn’t let herself be removed lofty expectations! from the lives of everyday Ohioans or 2 President’s Message from appropriate involvement with involvement and understanding. should be today. But I saw Maureen use those who share her passion for the law. That’s not merely an assembly of it early in her judicial career in Summit grandiose words to be checked off as County. And we can all see that today The Ohio Women’s Bar Association bene - we work our way down a rating form. here in this courtroom or on the tele - fits greatly from her keen interest and in - These are very meaningful, quantifi - vised proceedings. (Watch those re- volvement. For example, she has agreed able and essential qualities that mem - runs. The art of listening is visible to join 11 colleagues from across the state bers of the bar look for in a judge, and with Maureen, the intensity of to serve as advisors to our new Ohio especially for someone who will lead her focus comes across in almost Women’s Bar Foundation Leadership In - our highest court. every shot.) It’s a clear demonstration stitute. Next week, just days after her ad - of Maureen’s ability, insistence really, vancement to Chief Justice, she will be Those are also exactly the qualities on letting the practitioners make their with us for the advisory committee’s first Maureen has demonstrated from her ear - case. Yes, from the bench, as always meeting and help us develop programs for liest days on the trial bench. But Mau - she’ll be challenging with well-pre - emerging leaders among women attorneys reen also possesses one crucial criterion pared, probative questions. But also in the early stages of their careers. that isn’t on anyone’s official list for ju - she will be listening, visibly and in - dicial ratings. Yet, it may be the most Our association and other professional tently listening, and hearing the case, important quality of all, the most telling organizations that rate judges and jus - not truncating it. as a predictor of judicial temperament, tices base their evaluations on several fairness and leadership. And that is I said earlier that Maureen had taken key criteria, including integrity, judi - Maureen’s unfailing talent for and com - every step of her career with feet cial temperament, diligence, profes - mitment to listening. That’s a rare judi - planted firmly on the ground, profes - sional competence and community cial talent alas, much more rare than it sionally and personally. In taking office today as Chief Justice of this court she is also aware of the ways her feet now follow in the steps of Chief Justice Tom Moyer. What footsteps to follow! Our Calendar of Events late, beloved Chief Justice was also a judge who listened. And with that gift and all his other matchless qualities, he Women’sImpactSeries ThePowerofGratitude OWBAAnnualMeeting was exactly the kind of judge, justice, Feb. 16, 2011 Mar. 24, 2011 May 2011 chief justice that members of the bar March 16, 2011 11:30-1 p.m. Columbus, Ohio most admire, whether you agreed with 11:30-1 p.m. Columbus, Ohio For more information his specific decisions or not. Kent State Stark, Register at call the OWBA at Canton, Ohio www.ywcacolumbus.org (866) 932-6922 I believe that history (there’s that word Register at www.owba.org again) will say the same about Chief OWBACLE:TheArtof ThePowerof(Not) Justice Maureen O’Connor. ThePowerofCompeti- Negotiation DoingItAll tion Mar. 29, 2011 May 19, 2011 And that is why for myself and for my Feb. 17, 2011 12-2 p.m. 11:30-1 p.m. colleagues at the bar it truly is my 11:30-1 p.m. Columbus, Ohio Columbus, Ohio great honor, my rare privilege, my dis - Columbus, Ohio Register by calling Register at tinct pleasure and joy to salute Chief Register at (866) 932-6922 www.ywcacolumbus.org Justice Maureen O’Connor on this very www.ywcacolumbus.org special day. n LeadingwithStyle- LeadingwithStyle- LeadingwithStyle- Cleveland Cincinnati Columbus Apr. 28, 2011 June 2011 March 3, 2011 Cleveland, Ohio Cincinnati, Ohio n 6-8 p.m. Register by calling Sushi Rock, (866) 932-6922 Columbus, Ohio Register at www.owba.org

3 News

(Continued from page 1)

McGee Brown said she was honored to join the Court during historic times. “I have tremendous respect for the Court and the important role it has in our democracy,” she said. “I am humbled by this opportunity and consider it a privi - lege to serve with the other distin - guished jurists on the Court.” A series of firsts defines the judicial ca - reer of Justice Yvette McGee Brown. Justice McGee Brown was first elected to the Franklin County Court of Com - mon Pleas, Domestic Relations and Ju - venile Division in 1992. As lead juvenile court judge, McGee Brown led the cre - ation of the Family Drug Court and the SMART Program, truancy and educa - tional neglect intervention program. She served on the court until 2002, when she retired from the bench to create the Cen - ter for Child and Family Advocacy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She served as founding president until early Justice Yvette McGee Brown and OWBA President-Elect Jennifer B. Rhoads. 2010, when she became a candidate for lieutenant governor of Ohio. Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor, Ohio “Justice Brown arrived at this point of Justice McGee Brown graduated from State Bar Association President Carmen her life after hammering out her in 1982 with a degree in V. Roberto, and Judge Nathaniel R. thought process—her legal and analyti - journalism/public relations. She contin - Jones of the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of cal skills—on sturdy anvils that con - ued her education at The Ohio State Uni - Appeals offered remarks. fronted her in her youth as a child in a versity Moritz College of Law, earning single-parent home and through her “And, with her addition, she will com - her juris doctorate in 1985. In 2008, Jus - subsequent achievements grounded in a prise just the third-ever female majority tice McGee Brown was inducted into the mental discipline of hard work, in - on the Ohio Supreme Court in its his - Ohio Women’s Hall of Fame. Among her tegrity, judicial experience, and deter - tory. And, this time, we’re gonna make many honors, she has received the mination that undergirded a genuine it stick,” Chief Justice O’Connor said. Champion of Children Award, YWCA respect for the legal system,” said “I’m happy to call her a colleague, ex - Woman of Achievement Award and sev - Judge Jones. cited that such an accomplished, re - eral honors from Ohio University and spected public servant has joined the “This prepared her to search for solu - The . Court, and looking forward to tackling tions to the complex problems that con - The Ohio Women’s Bar Association the important work we have ahead of us front society. As she pursues her salutes Justice McGee Brown for her in a collaborative manner with her and arduous duties as a Justice of the groundbreaking work to advance the in - the other members of the Court.” , Yvette McGee terests of women in and under the law. Brown’s colleagues, the advocates that Retired Judge Nathaniel R. Jones of - The OWBA celebrates with pride Justice argue their claims before its bar, and the fered remarks on behalf of Ohio’s first McGee Brown’s success and remarkable public at large, will come to know that African-American justice. Justice achievements as she continues to make she, as was Justice Duncan, is a consti - Robert M. Duncan was unable to attend history in her community and in the tutionalist,” continued Judge Jones. the ceremony. State of Ohio. n

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News OWBA Founders’ Gala honors Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor

class of founding members, are hon- Barbara J. Smith (2001) ored with this award. Louise P. Dempsey (2002) The Ohio Women’s Bar Association Magistrate Judge Vernelis K. Armstrong honors Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor (2003) with the Founders’ Award honoring her achievements and professional excel- Sandra J. Anderson (2004) lence in the legal profession. Mickey Rabin (2005) The Founders' Award is OWBA's high- est recognition for professional excel- Joyce D. Edelman (2006) lence. Established in 1998, the first Holly Taft Sydlow and Kerin Lyn recipient of the award was one of Kaminski (2007) OWBA founders, Justice . The Founders' Award is pre- Judge Mary Jane Trapp (2009) sented to an outstanding OWBA mem- Sponsors for this prestigious event in- ber who has contributed to the OWBA clude Kohrman Jackson & Krantz PLL; and the legal profession, has rendered Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP; services to improve the administration Chester Willcox & Saxbe, LLP; Mac of justice, and has helped pave the way Murray Petersen & Shuster; Weltman, for women in the legal profession. In Weinberg & Reis Co., L.P.A.; Thacker Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor addition, the award acknowledges the Martinsek; Vorys, Sater, Seymour and recipient's willingness to give back to Pease LLP; The University of Akron It started with a speech by Justice Alice the legal community, as well as the School of Law; Kegler, Brown, Hill & Robie Resnick, April 1991, that general public, while demonstrating Ritter; Cooper & Walinski, LPA; and sparked the idea about establishing a professional excellence. Weston Hurd LLP. n statewide women’s bar association. Founders’AwardRecipients: Nurtured by Justice Resnick, the Hon- orable Patricia Hemann and Pamela Justice Alice Robie Resnick (1998) Hagle Hultin, this spark turned into a Pamela N. Hultin (1999) vision and on Sept. 23, 1991, the Ohio Women’s Bar Association became a re- Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Hemann ality. Twenty-six women attended that (2000) first meeting. They, along with the first

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OWBF law school scholarship: call for applications

The Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation working and the exchange of ideas be - (OWBF) will be granting a scholarship tween our members, local bar associa - in the amount of $1,000 to one law stu - tions, business and the community. This dent for the 2011-12 school year. The includes: deadline for submission is March 31, • Fostering communications and net - 2011, and the scholarship will be pre - working among women attorneys. sented to the winner at Ohio Women’s Bar Association Annual Meeting in May, • Promoting and advancing profes - in Columbus, Ohio. Date: TBA. sional opportunities for women attor - neys. The OWBF and the OWBA work closely together. Formed in 2008, the Ohio • Promoting the appointment and selec - Women’s Bar Foundation mission is to tion of women to various federal, research, analyze, compile, publish and state and local positions of influence. distribute educational materials to enable • Promoting women as leaders. women attorneys and those interested in encouraging women attorneys to become • Promoting and providing continuing more proficient in their profession with legal education targeting areas of par - the assistance of their local and national ticular interest to women attorneys. woman's bar associations. The OWBF is • Monitoring and supporting govern - a 501 (c)(3). ment legislation, policies, and prac - The OWBA was formed in 1991 to build tices affecting women. a community of lawyers who are inter - • Serving as a statewide resource repre - ested in the issues that uniquely affect senting perspectives of women in the women. The OWBA will be celebrating legal profession. its 20th year. The mission of the OWBA For an application, contact the OWBA is to promote the leadership, advance - office at (866) 932-6922 or ment and interests of women attorneys [email protected]. through professional education, net -

7 Members in the news OWBA Sustaining Members

(as of Jan. 11, 2011) Amanda Martinsek, Thacker Martinsek Grace Royalty, U.S. District Court, LPA Southern District Deborah Akers-Parry, Wolf & Akers LPA Jean McQuillan, Case Western Reserve Laura Sanom, Faruki Ireland & Cox University School of Law P.L.L. Laurie Avery, Reminger Co., LPA Rosemary Milby, Weltman Weinberg & Christiane Schmenk, The Scotts Mira - Randal Sue Bloch, Wagner & Bloch Reis Co., LPA cle-Gro Company

Angela Courtwright, Schottenstein Zox Suzanne Nigro, Suzanne M. Nigro, Atty. Stephanie Seeley, Reminger Co., LPA & Dunn at Law Michele Shuster, Mac Murray Petersen Patricia Delaney, 5th District Court of Maureen O'Connor, The Supreme Court & Shuster Appeals of Ohio Patricia Walker, Walker & Jocke Nancy Fuerst, Cuyahoga County Com - Susan Petersen, Petersen & Petersen, mon Pleas Court Inc. Stephen Walters, Reminger Co., LPA Melissa Graham-Hurd, Melissa A. Gra - Michelle Proia, Mettler-Toledo, Inc. Linde Webb, Lydy & Moan, Ltd. ham-Hurd, Atty. at Law Mary Ann Rabin, Rabin & Rabin Co. Lesley Wells, U.S. District Court, Laura Hauser, Thompson Hine LLP LPA Northern District Erin Hess, Reminger Co., LPA Julie Ellen Rabin, Rabin & Rabin Co. Hilla Zerbst, Frost Brown Todd LLC n LPA Valoria Hoover, Kohrman Jackson & Krantz PLL Kathleen Ransier, Vorys Sater Seymour & Pease LLP Lisa House, Reminger Co., LPA Members in the news Mary Readey, The Ohio State Pamela Hultin, Smith & Hultin LLC University Stephanie Bowman , OWBA Jennifer Jacquemain, Weston Hurd LLP Christine Reid, Reminger Co., LPA Trustee, was ap - pointed U.S. Mag - Maria Kortan-Sampson, Goodrich Jennifer Rhoads, Ohio Petroleum Corporation istrate Judge for Marketers & C-Store Assn the Southern Dis - trict of Ohio at Martha Krebs, Martha H. Krebs, Atty. Linda Rich, Linda M. Rich, Atty. at Law Cincinnati on Oct. at Law 29, 2010. Before becoming magis - Janice Rieth, Schneider Smeltz Ranney trate judge, Bowman was a law clerk Helen MacMurray, Mac Murray & LaFond to the Hon. Michael R. Barrett, U.S. Petersen & Shuster District Judge. The Ohio Women’s Carol Rolf, Rolf & Goffman Co. LPA Bar Association congratulates Mag - Catherine Martineau, MacMillan istrate Judge Stephanie Bowman. Sobanski & Todd, LLC

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Members in the news Welcome new OWBA members (as of Jan. 11, 2011) Micaela Deming, Columbus Prosecu - Ashley Johns tor's Office Cleveland Karren Laura Dettinger Jeannine Abukhater Taylor Knight Cassandra Dohar Mary Alexander, McDonald Hopkins LLC Katie Kormanyos Sarah Driftmyer Caroline Allen Sarah Kurfis Sarah Duffy, Meyers Roman Friedberg Steven Allen & Lewis Michael Laurie Jennifer Armstrong, McDonald Hopkins Lidia Ebersole Sydney Leavitt LLC Naglaa Elgammal Elizabeth Lefond George Asimou, McDonald Hopkins LLC Lauren Emptage Anita Levin, Lucas County Juvenile Martha Asseff, Dinsmore & Shohl, LLP Court Meredith Fergus, McDonald Hopkins Jessica Baranko LLC Mary L'Hommedieu, Meyers Roman Friedberg & Lewis Julia Baxter, Franklin County Public Meghan Freeman Defender Marissa Licata Becky Ganis, Freking & Betz Brian Berry Matthew Manning Beth Gillin, McDonald Hopkins LLC Kevin Bilbrey Maria McBride, Maria L McBride, Atty Mia Gonzalez at Law Megan Bischoff Laura Goshe Susan McGlone, McDonald Hopkins Stacy Blomeke, Frost Brown Todd LLC LLC Nicole Gray, McDonald Hopkins LLC Elizabeth Bostdorff Margo Meola, Comstock Springer & Kerry Green, Hahn Loeser & Parks Wilson Co LPA Adam Bryda LLP Haley Miller Kristine Byrne, Manju Gupta, McDonald Hopkins LLC Olivia Miranda Stephanie Chandler Lindsy Gwozdz Jessica Monday Jennifer Charter Mark Harris Yan Chen Brittney Nascone, Meyers Roman Veronica Hernandez Friedberg & Lewis Amber Chuhy Brittany Hicar John Neville, Reminger Co., LPA Lori Clary, McDonald Hopkins LLC Nicole Hodge Heather Niedermeier S. Andrew Clifford Ann Hunt, McDonald Hopkins LLC Amaka Nnama Christal Contini, McDonald Hopkins Katherine Ivan, Agee Clymer Mitchell LLC Lucy O'Shaughnessy, McDonald Hop - & Laret kins LLC Gillian Crowl, Faruki Ireland & Cox Robin Jarvis, Ohio Attorney General's P.L.L. Anne Owings Ford, McDonald Hopkins Office LLC Kathleen Davis Jennifer Thacker Cassia Pangas

10 Members in the news

Gina Piacentino Mallory Sander, Sutter O'Connell Mary Sullivan, Peck Shaffer & Farchione Co, L.P.A. Williams, LLP Emily Piros Karina Sargsian Nicole Swearengen Miranda Powell, Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Hallie Schneider Borellis, Schwartz Jamie Takacs Manes Ruby & Slovin LPA Maryam Qureshi Channing Taub Sara Schroth, Porter Wright Morris Kathleen Ransier, Vorys, Sater, Sey - & Arthur, LLP Kati Tharp mour and Pease LLP Jonnie Short Marguerite Waldo, Thacker Martin - Nathalie Raymer, Greater Cincinnati sek LPA Health Foundation Chase Simon Erin Walsh, McDonald Hopkins LLC Jennifer Reed Jenifere Singleton, Meyers Roman Friedberg & Lewis April Ward Maggie Reynolds Kelli Steber Lauren Webb, Kelly Rice Rachel Steinlage, Meyers Roman Sheila Williamowski Allison Roach Friedberg & Lewis LeeDaun Williams Tiffany Robinson Ann Studer Amelia Workman Farago, Taft Stet - Allison Roshon Elizabeth Sullivan, McDonald Hop - tinius & Hollister LLP Melissa Rucker, Taft Stettinius & kins LLC Ann Zarick, McDonald Hopkins LLC n Hollister LLP

“I was always looking outside myself for VWUHQJWKDQGFRQÀGHQFHEXWLWFRPHVIURPZLWKLQ It was there all along.” —Anna Freud

We’re proud to support the Ohio Women’s Bar Association.

Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP 52 East Gay Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215 614.464.6400 | www.vorys.com

11 News OWBA honors central Ohio’s newest women attorneys

On a cold fall evening, warm salutations “learning the ropes” as they start their tails” to practical tips such as, “wear were exchanged at the OWBA reception legal careers. comfortable shoes,” were included. honoring central Ohio’s newest woman OWBA President-Elect Jennifer Rhoads The OWBA would like to thank Judge attorneys. More than 30 new women at - and OWBA Trustees Carrie Gutowski, Judy French, Judge Carrie Glaeden, torneys attended the reception not only Michelle Proia and Erin Holmes, plus Judge Julie Lynch and Judge Lisa Sadler to celebrate their achievement, but also other OWBA members and judges were for attending the event. to talk to other new attorneys, seasoned on-hand to share their experiences with attorneys and local judiciary about the The OWBA would also like to thank Be - the new attorneys. In fact, a top 10 tips challenges of starting in the legal profes - nesch and Kohrman Jackson & Krantz list was compiled from members and sion. Many new attorneys shared their for sponsoring the reception. Their gen - local judges to share with the new attor - concerns about the job market and erous support is greatly appreciated. n neys. Tips such as “pay attention to de -

Ohio’s newest women attorneys from central Ohio gather at the OWBA reception. Congratulations!

12 News New lawyers gather in Cincinnati by Stephanie Bowman shared with us how she came to be on given that the procedures may vary the bench. Judge Allen so graciously greatly by judge. The OWBA had another successful welcomed the new attorneys to call Kelly Leibold, a newly admitted attor - event in Cincinnati on Dec. 7, 2010, upon her if they ever had any questions ney with Graydon Head, said of the where we welcomed new attorneys who or concerns. Judge-elect Rodenberg event, “I found the event both practical were recently admitted to the bar at a re - spoke to the newly admitted attorneys and empowering. Each speaker had ception. The reception was held at Bar - about maintaining a work-life balance something different to offer, but all were tini’s Premier Martini Lounge, a trendy and specifically not making “work” be charismatic and made me proud to be new night spot downtown, where we your master. She explained that it is pos - part of the legal profession. At the very gathered in a luxurious private room. sible to be a great lawyer and not give beginning of my legal career, the oppor - The event provided the new attorneys an up your passions or the things that make tunity to hear from these accomplished opportunity to socialize and network you "you." with each other as well as OWBA Presi - women and the advice they have for fe - dent Valoria Hoover and OWBA First I too was able to share some advice with male lawyers just starting out was in - District Trustee Grace Royalty. We were the attorneys in attendance. I reminded valuable.” I think all those in attendance especially thankful to have Hamilton them that when they practice in federal would echo Kelly’s sentiments. court that they should become familiar County Common Pleas Court Judge Na - A special thank you to Reminger and with the website of the district court as it dine Allen and Judge-Elect Kathleen Keating, Muething, & Klekamp, PLL is a great resource of information. Most Rodenberg of the Clermont County Do - for sponsoring the event and to Carrie particularly helpful is the link to each mestic Relations Court join us and share Masters, who chaired the event, as well judge’s webpage where you can find his some of their insight into the practice of as all those who helped plan yet another or her “forms and procedures” as well as law. Judge Allen, always an energetic successful night for the OWBA and the a biographical sketch. This is a great and inspiring speaker, encouraged the attorneys in Cincinnati. n new attorneys to “find your voice” and tool to become familiar with, especially Stephanie K. Bowman was sworn in as a magistrate judge for the Southern District of Ohio on Oct. 29, 2010. She is a 1997 graduate of the University of Illinois and a 2000 graduate of DePaul University, College of Law. Prior to joining the bench, Bowman spent one year practicing immigration law before joining Barrett & Weber, LP, where her practiced focused on the fields of es - tate planning, zoning, real estate law, business transactions and litigation. Most recently, Bowman was a law clerk to the Hon. Michael R. Barrett, U.S. District Judge. Bowman is also an OWBA Trustee.

Cincinnati, OH 13 News Cincinnati rainmaking seminar a great success by Laura A. Sanom based on sound business judgment. Their to the audience about tips for developing attorneys must understand their busi - your personal brand and style as ways to According to the 2008 National Associa - nesses and the issues facing their respec - focus your interests, strengths and pro - tion of Women Lawyers (NAWL) Sur - tive businesses and industries. fessional goals. With this type of fo - vey, only 16 percent of equity partners cused intention, achieving one’s goals The panel of judges included First District nationwide are women. This is true even becomes more realistic and attainable. though for more than two decades, close Court of Appeals Judge Sylvia Sieve Hen - to 50 percent of law school graduates don; Hamilton County Common Pleas After the informative, jam-packed semi - and first-year associates have been Judge Beth A. Myers; and former Hamil - nar, the panelists and attendees were in - women. That same survey reveals that ton County Common Pleas Judge Ann vited to continue the discussion at a male equity partners make on average Marie Tracey, who is now a professor at networking reception hosted by Faruki $87,000 more than their female counter - Xavier University. Among their many tips Ireland & Cox PLL for success, these jurists recommended parts. In light of such unbalanced statis - At the wine and cheese reception, many getting involved in the political process as tics, the OWBA has developed and of the guests shared remarks on a com - a way to not only serve your community sponsored the seminar “Secrets of Rain - mon theme. making for Women Attorneys: Tips for and the issues that matter to you but also Making it to the Corner Office.” as a great way to network with people Hearing these tips from such a prestigious who have similar interests. They empha - group of women and having the opportu - On Nov. 17, 2010, the OWBA sponsored sized that if you follow your passions in nity to network with them and the other its rainmaking seminar in Cincinnati. A life, you will be better at what you do and attendees was energizing and reinvigo - dynamic group of women clients, judges happier in the long run. Another tip for rated our drive to be even more focused and attorneys offered their perspectives success is to take a personal inventory an - on excelling in our practices. The OWBA on the secrets of rainmaking and tips for nually of where you are in your career and wishes to thank the law firm of Taft Stet - a successful career. The client panel was where you would like to be. With such as - tinius & Hollister LLP for donating their a who’s who of Cincinnati business sessments, you can set an intention and beautiful facility, The Taft Center, located women, including Procter & Gamble work toward that goal for professional near Fountain Square, for the seminar; Chief Legal Officer and Secretary Debo - growth or change. Mike Mobley Reporting for donating the rah P. Majoras; The Kroger Co. Vice video and AV needs for the seminar; and The attorneys’ panel included OWBA President, Chief Litigation Counsel and Faruki Ireland & Cox PLL for sponsoring President and Kohrman, Jackson & Asst. Secretary Martha Cutright Sarra; the wine and cheese reception. n Fifth Third Bank Legal Dept. Vice Presi - Krantz PLL Partner Valoria C. Hoover; dent and Counsel J. Phenise Poole; Freking & Betz LLC Partner Kelly Mul - Laura Sanom is a partner with the Henny Penny Corp. General Counsel loy Myers; Taft Stettinius & Hollister commercial litigation firm Faruki Ire - Laura M. Amiott; and American Empire LLP Partner Julia B. Meister; and Wood, land & Cox, PLL, which handles litiga - Surplus Line Ins. Vice President-Claims Herron & Evans LLP Partner Karen K. tion matters nationwide from its offices Dianne Williams. The client advice was Gaunt. These practitioners emphasized in Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio. Laura as interesting and sage as the panel itself. their tips for productive networking, ex - telepractices with the firm from her of - In particular, in the current tough eco - cellent communication practices with fice in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. Cur - nomic market, the clients say they are clients, understanding where your refer - rently licensed in Michigan, New looking for attorneys with expertise in rals come from and cultivating those Jersey and Ohio, Laura received her their respective fields to gain the greatest sources of referrals, and developing Juris Doctorate from the George Wash - efficiencies in representation. Their ideal your skills and reputation so you can ington University and her BA from attorneys must also have an excellent rep - provide clients with “top service and top Kalamazoo College in Michigan. She utation, excellent communication skills ethics.” Our final speaker at the seminar is the OWBA Trustee for the second and must be able to offer candid advice was an executive coach from Baker & district, and chairs the CLE and Judi - cial Review Committees. 14 Daboll, Vivian K. Kist. Ms. Kist spoke Please join us for the 3rd Annual WOMEN’S IMPACT SERIES WomenWomenomen as trailblazers in history and as our contemporaries are featured in the 20112011 Women’Women’ss Impact Lecture Series. In this third annual series, three luncheon topics explore the different aspects of being a successful agent of change and growth as a woman. Distinguished speakers will share their personal experience and insight on how women are uniquely ableable to positively impact their own lives, workplaces and the communitycommunity..

JANUARY 19, 2011 FEBRUARY 16, 2011 MARCHMARCH 16, 2011 FFIRSTIRST IN MILITMILITARYTARAARRY SESERVICE:RVICE: FIRSTFIRST IINN AATHLATHLETICS:THLETICS: FFIRSTIRST IINN COMMUNCOMMUNITYITY SESERVICE:RVICE: DUTYDUTY AANDND HONOHONORRXEXCELLENCEEXCELLENCE AANDND AACHIEVEMENTCHIEVEMENTAAADVOCACYDVOCACY AANDND COMCOMPASSIONPASSION

PRESENTERS: Dr. Mary Eddwardswards Walker, Civil PRESENTERS: PatriciaPatricia Hopkins Williams, with War Surgeon and Congressional Medal of the Minnie Hopkins Neighborhood Center Honor (as portrayed by Meelindalinda Cooper, Court Naancyncy Boylan, Gertrude Kennedy and Administrator for the Fifth District Court of Helen Syrios, Founding Mothers of the AAppeals,ppeals, former Captain in the U.S. Army) Domestic Violence Project Hon. Beth Whitmore, Judge of the Ninth Carly and AAbbybby Zalenski, Jackson High School District Court of Appeals, former Captain in the students with “Kids Building Hope” U.S. Air Force Security Service MODERATOR: Mariaaria Heege, President and CEO Captain Maria Kimble, Ohio Army of United Waayy of Greater Stark County National Guard MODERATOR: Vicki Woods, American Red Cross

LOCAATITION COST REGISTER ONLINE The University Center $25 per luncheon http://www.owba.org Kent State Stark Campus Register for all three for $70.00 Space is limited. Don’t miss your opportunity to 6000 Frank Ave. N.W., North Canton (if registered by December 17, 2010) hear compelling presentations and connect with TIME Table Sponsorship: $200 dynamic women in Stark County! 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 2011 Women’s Impact Luncheon Series presented by: News Legislative Committee update The OWBA Legislative Committee is programs to cut and which to sustain. 2014 unconstitutional on the grounds actively working on several projects, By law, the state budget must be that it violates the Constitution’s Com - including development of a legisla - passed by the start of the next fiscal merce Clause. Judge Hudson concluded tive advocacy guide for members; ex - year—July 1, 2011—or an interim that the requirement is an unprece - ploring the opportunity for a budget will be necessary. dented expansion of federal power and legislative reception in first half of cannot be justified under Congress's au - In addition to the state operating budget, 2011; and providing regular updates thority to regulate interstate commerce. the following issues are expected to to OWBA membership. Experts predict that the case will be ap - gather momentum over the next two pealed to the U.S. Supreme Court but In an effort to be member-driven with years of the Ohio General Assembly: that it could take up to two years to be regard to the issues upon which the leg - • Ensuring the solvency of the state’s decided. In the meantime, at least 23 islative committee focuses, member five public employee retirement other cases challenging the constitution - feedback was elicited in two recent sur - systems; ality of the law have been filed, and veys. The June 2010 general member - they are working their way through ship survey indicated the preference of • Changes to Ohio’s healthcare laws other federal district courts. OWBA membership to focus on both in response to federal healthcare state and federal issues, with a lean to - law changes; Beyond the goal of keeping members ward state issues. In a follow-up, the informed, the legislative committee legislative committee conducted a more • Passing criminal sentencing re - seeks to educate OWBA membership targeted survey in November to discern forms in the wake of Ohio’s bur - on effective constituent lobbying by what key issues the committee should geoning prison population; developing a legislative advocacy monitor and report upon. The two top • Reevaluating regulatory burdens on guidebook. Additionally, the commit - legislative/policy areas in which mem - small business in an effort to im - tee is putting together a proposal for a bers indicated an interest were civil jus - prove Ohio’s economic climate; legislative reception in Columbus at tice (36 percent) and education (31 which members engage with their state percent), followed by healthcare and • Improving Ohio’s K-8 education elected officials on a face-to-face basis. business and employment law issues delivery; and The success of the Legislative Com - (both at 22 percent). • Redrawing the state legislative and mittee in providing a benefit to OWBA The legislative committee aims to use congressional district lines, a members hinges on continued feed - these survey results to guide our focus process that takes place every 10 back from our members. We encourage to provide regular updates throughout years after the census is conducted. you to share your thoughts with us. If the year on state and federal issues that At the federal level, the committee will you are interested in becoming more resonate with OWBA membership. On be watching as legal challenges mount involved with legislative issues and the state legislative front, the state op - regarding the new health care law. On would like to participate on the Leg - erating budget features to dominate the Dec. 13, U.S. District Judge Henry E. islative Committee, please contact agenda for the incoming general as - Hudson became the first federal judge Chris Schmenck at sembly. The state auditor’s office has to strike down a key portion of the law [email protected] or predicted $8 billion hole in the state when he sided with the state of Virginia Heather Mann at budget in 2012-13, presenting legisla - and ruled the provision requiring indi - [email protected]. tors with major challenges on which viduals to have insurance coverage by

16 March 3, 2011 VIP Reception: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm General Reception: 6:00 – 8:00 pm Sushi Rock 570 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio Enjoy an evening with colleagues, friends, legal and business professionals while having an opportunity to evaluate and refresh your personal and professional image. The event will include a silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities. For nearly three decades, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio (RMHC) has been serving families with seriously ill children by providing a home-away-from-home at the Columbus Ronald McDonald House. Proceeds will also go to the Ohio Women’s Bar Foundation. For sponsorship opportunities please email the OWBA: [email protected] For more information and ticket sales please visit www.OWBA.org or call 866-932-6922.

Jane Grote Abell Host Committee Cheryl Roberto Chairman Valoria C. Hoover Hon. Stephen McIntosh Commissioner Donatos President, OWBA, Partner President, Columbus Bar Association Public Utilities Kohrman Jackson Krantz PLL Franklin County Common Commission of Ohio Hon. Pleas Court Former Secretary of State Dr. Rebecca Jackson Denise Stump Partner, Brunner Quinn Women’s Health Initiative Sequencing Project Hon. Terrance O’Donnell Executive Vice President Department of Internal Medicine, Supreme Court of Ohio Global Human Resources Beau Euton The Ohio State University The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Vice President Hon. Guy Reece, II Ohio Chamber of Commerce Hon. Julie Lynch Franklin County Common Pleas Court Hon. Pat Tiberi Franklin County Common Pleas Court U.S. House of Representatives Hon. Cheryl Grossman Ohio House of Representatives News Age discrimination: It’s all relevant ment Act of 1967 (ADEA) protects em - ployees over the age of 40 from discrim - inatory employment actions on the basis of age. The language of the ADEA makes it unlawful for employers to take adverse action against employees “be - cause of such individual’s age.” The U.S Supreme Court held in Price Waterhouse v. Hopkins, 490 U.S. 228, 241-42 (1989) that discrimination could be shown even if the employer had a “mixed motive”— that employees did not need to prove that age was “the reason” that the em - ployer acted but only that it was one of the motivating factors for an adverse employment action. This line of reason - ing was followed for 20 years; however, in 2008, the Supreme Court refused to apply the “mixed motive” standard. In Gross v. FBL Financial Services, Inc., 129 S. Ct. 2343 (2009), the Court held age discrimination claims filed with the that to be successful in an age discrimi - Ohio Civil Rights Commission, the nation action, employees must prove by Christiane Schmenk threat of age discrimination seems to that an adverse action would not have It’s human nature that we don’t focus on peak at about age 50 and then again occurred “but-for” the employee’s age. issues until they become relevant to us. when workers are nearing retirement That case marked a significant departure Until recently, I never thought of age age. “A big part of the reason may be from past holdings, and many say it may discrimination as something that could that these workers are employed by cause disparity and forum shopping apply to me. I was sympathetic and car - companies feeling pressure from global among the federal circuit courts. competition, and these employers are ing when I represented clients with In response to Gross, members of Con - looking for ways to hold down wages those claims, but could I relate to them? gress introduced in October 2009 the and benefits,” Roscigno said. Once these Not really—not until now, when I’ve “Protecting Older Workers Against Dis - workers lose their jobs, it is increasingly reached the “over 50” category. And, re - crimination Act” (H.R. 3721/S. 1756). If harder for them to find another. In a re - cent changes in our federal age discrimi - passed, it would amend the ADEA, cent study, “The New Unemployables: nation laws have sharpened my focus making a plaintiff’s burden in an age Older Job Seekers Struggle to Find and bear watching by us all. case like the causation requirement of Work During the Great Recession” by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of Most of our parents’ generation worked Boston College’s Sloan Center on Aging 1964: The plaintiff would have to prove for the same employer their entire lives. & Work, 67 percent of surveyed job age was a motivating factor behind the Employees were rewarded for their seekers age 55 or older had been search - employment decision, even if other fac - years of service, and employers were ing for jobs for over a year. Only 43 per - tors also motivated that decision. This generous with pension and retiree med - cent of younger workers took that long legislation was referred to various com - ical insurance plans. However, as our to find another job. economy tanked, employers have been mittees but has not moved closer to en - forced to cut costs. According to The So, for us “older folk”, what protections actment. Thus, the case law applying to Ohio State University Sociology Profes - against age discrimination exist? The federal age discrimination claims re - sor Vincent Roscigno, in a 2007 study of federal Age Discrimination and Employ - mains in a state of uncertainty.

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Many states, including Ohio, also have laws, so it is important to seek assis - (http://www.betterjobsadvice.com/201 age discrimination laws. Ohio’s Fair tance from an experienced employ - 0/06/approaches-and-tactics-for- Employment Practices Act (FEPA), ment attorney. If charges are filed older.html). This is good advice for all embodied in R.C. 4112.02 and under R.C. 4112 with the OCRC, Sec - of us, no matter our age. n 4112.14, makes it unlawful for em - tion 4112.08 makes it clear that Christiane Schmenk has been an at - ployers to discriminate against em - claimants are barred from later filing a torney since 1984 and has been ployees “because of the race, color, suit in state court under state law. with The Scotts Miracle-Gro Com - religion, sex, military status, national In spite of the Gross case cited above, pany for the last 17 years. She has origin, disability, age or ancestry of remedies still exist if age discrimina - served as Scotts’ Vice President of any person.” Employees 40 years of tion occurs. However, for us “over 50” External Affairs, Director of Govern - age or older who feel they have been a attorneys, experts recommend practical ment Affairs, Director of Environ - victim of age discrimination may tips to minimize our chances of being mental Stewardship and Director of choose one of two options: an adminis - adversely affected: 1. Keep our skills Legal Affairs. Before Scotts, she was trative remedy or a private lawsuit. current, especially computer skills; 2. a corporate attorney and was in pri - If employees in Ohio decide to pursue Seek out employers who embrace di - vate practice. She received her Juris an administrative remedy, they can file versity; 3. Network with others con - Doctorate degree from The Ohio a claim either with the OCRC or the stantly; 4. Be receptive to working for State University and her B.A. from Equal Employment Opportunity Com - salary only or on a part-time basis, es - Ohio Northern University. Schmenk mission (EEOC). The two agencies pecially if benefits can be obtained is also co-chair of the OWBA Leg - have different filing deadlines, and elsewhere; and 5. Embrace change and islative Committee. variations exist in federal and state don’t be afraid to reinvent ourselves.

Thacker Martinsek LPALPPPAA ACJC@P?RCQACACJCJCJC@C@P@P?P?R?RCRCQCQ thethhe AMSLRJCQQAMAMSMSLSLRLRJRJCJCQCQQQQ ?AFGCTCKCLRQ??AAFAFGFGCGCTCTTCCKCKCKCLCLRLRQRQ ofof women in theth law.law.

Joseph Thacker Jodi D. Spencer Jessica R. Hamner Amanda Martinsek Margueriteguerite E. Waldo Brian D. Heskamp Diane E. Citrino Stacy RC Berliner Andrew W. Miller Suzanne Bretz Blum BrandiBrandi L. Doniere Marquettes D. Robinson NNicoleicole K. Schwieterman Nicholas J. Hammond Kimberly Williford XXX/UNMQB/DPN

CLEVELANDCCLEVELVELAND METROMEMETTTROO TOLEDOTOLEDO NAPLESNAPNAPLEESS 23302332 300 OneOnOne CClevelandCleeveelaand CCenterennteer 323532 5 LevisLeLevis CommonsCoommommonss BoulevardBouBo levvaard 14151144155 PantherPaantherther LaneLan 137513375 EastEaasst NinthNiN nth StreetStrSttreeett PePerrysburg,erryssbburb rg, OhOOhiohioo 4354435515551 SSuiteuittee 2082088 Cleveland,CCllevveelanndd, OhioOhiO o 441144441144 41419.931.6910199.99331.691069 0 Naples,Naapples,es, FloridaFloridaorida 341093 1090 216.456.384022116.456.384045 .3 40 232239.591.66859..591.668855 19 News Family Friendly Award: call for nominations

The Ohio Women’s Bar Association is accepting nominations ● Women at partnership and management levels. for the Ninth Annual Family Friendly Award. The deadline is ● Promotes and supports telecommuting. Appropriate work March 1, 2011. may be completed from home. The firm/employer pro - It is the position of the Ohio Women’s Bar Association that the vides technological support to facilitate telecommuting advancement of work-life balance in our profession benefits when appropriate. both lawyers and legal employers. As the ABA Commission ● Promotes and supports job flexibility by offering a variety on Women in the Profession has noted, what many lawyers of alternative and creative work arrangements that support want is not necessarily to be “part time” but to have “balanced work-life balance. Examples include part time, reduced lives” combined with suitable career development. Thus, in schedules, flex-time, job sharing, and telecommuting. an effort to promote and recognize Ohio firms and employers Flex-time options may include allowing employees to who promote work-life balance, the OWBA accepts nomina - work condensed or flexible schedules, such as four-day tions and awards the “Family Friendly” Award to a firm/em - workweeks, a reduced lunch hour with a shortened work ployer each year. day, and the ability to start and leave early or start and The OWBA has established guidelines for nominations and se - leave later than standard hours. lection for the “Family Friendly” Award. These guidelines are ● Supports balanced hours. Examples include allowing at - set forth below and appear in no particular order. These are torneys to work individually tailored, reduced schedules not mandatory requirements, but are factors which the OWBA that are designed to meet the firm or employer’s business feels are important in establishing, promoting and supporting needs while maintaining the attorney’s ability to have work-life balance in the legal profession: work-life balance. ● Efforts to recruit, hire and retain female lawyers.

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● Follows proportionality. Attorneys working flexible ● Can demonstrate a pattern of promoting women on part- schedules should be paid in proportion to the work they time/flexible schedules to partner and/or other leadership are doing, should continue to be assigned meaningful, in - positions. teresting and challenging work, and should be promoted ● Has family friendly social activities. based on the same criteria as other attorneys. ● Has reasonable billable hour requirements. ● Has written criteria for employee eligibility for flexible work arrangements and written criteria for the effect a re - ● Has written policies and procedures that address these duced or flexible schedule has on advancement or partner - work-life balance issues and such policies and procedure ship track. are applied in a flexible and fair manner. ● Has a system for tracking data to show the impact, if any, ● Management demonstrates support of these policies and flexibility has on clients or customers as well as employee procedures. productivity. ● Has a designated representative responsible to act as a li - ● Respects the employee’s schedule, off hours, and family aison with employees and ensure fair implementation of leaves. For example, some effort is made to avoid sched - the firm or employer’s policies. uling mandatory meetings during these times. ● Receptive to and/or has a system in place for working with employees before a leave to map out options for re - Pastawardrecipients turn, while recognizing that decisions are often not made Reminger & Reminger Co., L.P.A. (2003) until once leave begins or ends. Bricker & Eckler LLP (2004) ● Has a parental leave policy, which may include the fol - lowing considerations: Three months maternity leave; pa - Cuyahoga County Prosecutor William D. Mason and Geauga ternity leave; option for additional unpaid leave; a “phase County Prosecutor David P. Joyce (2005) back” return to work following parental leave (i.e., an em - Ohio Auditor of State Betty D. Montgomery and Eastman & ployee has the option to return for half days or part time Smith, Ltd. (2006) for a designated period of time following leave); equal benefits for adoptive parents. Squire, Sanders & Dempsey L.L.P. (2007) ● Recognizing and supporting other leaves for family needs, Cooper & Walinski, LLP (2008) such as parental care, and having in place an elder care Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP and Javitch, Block & Rath - leave policy. bone LLP (2009) ● Is supportive of breast pumping for new mothers, which McGinty, Hilow & Spellacy Co., LPA and Ohio Attorney may include providing a private location dedicated to General ’s Office (2010) needs of nursing mothers. ● Is receptive to taking into account family situations when staffing employees on matters. For a nomination form, contact the OWBA office at (866) 932-6922 or [email protected]. ● Offers financial assistance to employees with adoption ex - penses.

21 News Two reasons to include charitable giving and volunteerism in your networking strategy

networking tool than in previous years. The purpose of this editorial is to put forth two ways that you may not have previously considered to make partici - pation in a charity or nonprofit a more valuable networking tool. First, affiliation with organizations that use social networking platforms has the potential to give you “more bang for your buck,” meaning that you no longer have to be a named sponsor to receive published recognition of your donation or participation in a charitable event. As charities and nonprofits have begun to adopt and effectively use social net - working media, volunteer and donor visibility has increased, which, in turn, has the potential to make charitable participation with these entities a more valuable networking tool. Adding a charitable organization to your Facebook page is a means of opening dialogue with other mem - bers of the same “affinity group.” For example, I “tagged” myself in a photo posted on Facebook after a By Erin Holmes press” by associating yourself with an charity fashion event, and subse - admirable cause to better the commu - quently, a woman I had briefly met at One of the reasons that lawyers typi - nity and make meaningful connections the event “friended” me to discuss cally engage in charitable giving and with other similarly minded individu - the event and similar events in the volunteerism is that community in - als. However, in today’s economic and Columbus area. volvement is a staple of business net - technological climate, not only are working. Not only does participation in charities and nonprofits in more need Furthermore, newer services have a local charity provide a means of of funding and talent, but also associa - branched out across social networking meeting new people, but it also offers tion with such charities has the poten - platforms to specifically promote chari - an opportunity to get some “good tial to be a more effective and valuable table giving through increased visibility

22 News of volunteers and donors. For example, Because the readers of this newsletter GirlsInc.. social media like Twitter are being are all OWBA members, I would en - “Girls Incorporated is a nonprofit or - specifically adapted for charitable giv - courage you to consider volunteering ganization that inspires all girls to be ing—Twitpay now allows users to with organizations that support the strong, smart, and bold through a net - make online donations that send tweets OWBA mission and thus indirectly work of local organizations in the publicizing the individual gift. Addi - build up the OWBA. The following are United States and Canada. With local tionally, sites like Crowdrise, which a sample of charities or nonprofits that roots dating to 1864 and national status was launched by Edward Norton this are either run by women or specifically in the United States since 1945, Girls past summer, allow members to pro - work to promote women as profession - Inc. responds to the changing needs of mote and campaign via Facebook, Twit - als and leaders in Ohio: girls and their communities through re - ter and ShareThis for their favorite local search-based programs and advocacy or national charities to receive funding. that empower girls to reach their full DressforSuccess Finally, using social media to display potential and to understand, value, and your participation in the community is “The mission of Dress for Success is to assert their rights. In 2009, Girls Inc. a way of demonstrating that you have promote the economic independence of reached over 900,000 girls through interests and activities outside of disadvantaged women by providing Girls Inc. affiliates, our website, and being a lawyer. For example, includ - professional attire, a network of support educational publications.” –girlsinc.org ing a link to your favorite charity on and the career development tools to Locations: Cincinnati, Dayton, Hamilton your LinkedIn profile could give help women thrive in work and in life.” those in your network a better view Cincinnati contact info: Locations: Cincinnati, Cleveland, into your values and who are you are Girls Incorporated at the YWCA of Columbus, Warren-Youngstown as a person. Greater Cincinnati Columbus contact info: The second way in which charitable 898 Walnut Street (614) 291-0431 giving and volunteering might augment Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 [email protected] your networking strategy is by focusing Phone: (513) 361-2186 1260 North High Street participation in organizations that, in Fax: (513) 768-4381 Columbus, Ohio 43201 turn, support issues in which you are Executive Director: Rhonda Lindon- already active or groups in which you Hammon are already a member. Obviously, it E-mail: [email protected] makes sense to focus your charitable YWCA Dayton contact info: participation in organizations that sup - “The YWCA, the largest women’s or - port your personal interests, values and YWCA of Dayton ganization in the world, is dedicated to 141 W. Third Street causes. Not only will the experience be eliminating racism, empowering more poignant and rewarding, but there Dayton, Ohio 45402-1814 women and promoting peace, justice, Business: (937) 461-5550 is also a better opportunity to form freedom, and dignity for all.” meaningful connections with people Fax: (937) 222-0610 who share the same interests, values or Locations: Alliance, Columbus, Elyria, CEO: Carol Hinton causes. On a broader level, by focusing Cleveland, Hamilton, Lorain, Medina, E-mail: [email protected] your charitable efforts on a few differ - Salem, Van Wert, Youngstown, Canton, Website: www.ywcadayton.org ent organizations which support com - Dayton, Cincinnati, Toledo, Lima, mon or similar causes, you can achieve Massillon, Piqua, Steubenville, Warren greater impact, thereby benefiting all of Cincinnati contact info: the organization you support. For ex - www.ywcacincinnati.org ample, volunteering for an organization (513) 241-7090 that seeks to promote the presence of 898 Walnut Street women as business leaders in Ohio also Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 serves to indirectly support, in part, the purpose of the OWBA, which includes promoting the leadership, advancement and interests of women attorneys through promoting women as leaders.

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WomenforEconomicLeadership who want to transform our community timer! Three members are drawn at andDevelopment(WELD) through occasional fun lunches, happy random to be eligible to speak for five hours and special events. We focus on minutes each on behalf of a charity, and “WELD provides women with spe - helping young women gain confidence at the end of the meeting, the charity cific tools and skills to enhance their in their capabilities as donors and vol - with the most votes receives $100 from individual economic status. Our efforts unteers. We want to inspire women to each of the women in attendance. We help mobilize women to become more fulfill their philanthropic potential have donated nearly $20,000 in the past active participants in the leadership of through donations of time, talent and year to help four different charities right area businesses, civic organizations money. Every two years we will des - here in Columbus!” and government. To increase the num - ignate a new charity, and all of our ef - ber of women in business and govern - forts for the next two years will go ment leadership in central Ohio. We toward raising funds and awareness Locations: Cleveland, Columbus, Day - build programs, events, and a commu - for that organization.” --www.chicks ton nity to support leadership development forcharity.com and business growth.” Columbus contact info: Location: Toledo [email protected] Location: Columbus www.linkedin.com/groupRegistra - Toledo contact info: Columbus contact info: tion?gid=1922190 (419) 241-2221 (866) 614-9353 [email protected] (614) 321-3343 [email protected] www.chicksforcharity.net 100(+) Women Who Care – Columbus www.weldoh.org/ Metro 6478 Winchester Boulevard, Suite 120 c/o Sarah Black Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110 100WomenWhoCare 3854 Eagle Point Drive Beavercreek, Ohio 45430 “The 100(+) WWC is the perfect chari - ChicksforCharity table and networking organization for busy professional women in the Colum - “Enjoy life. Laugh a lot. Work hard. Erin Holmes is an attorney at Bailey bus area to make an impact on the com - Play hard. Be thankful for our blessings. Cavalieri LLC and an OWBA Trustee munity and meet other like-minded Share the wisdom. Give back. That's At-Large. women. We meet only four times a what Chicks for Charity is all about.” year at meetings that are required to be “We are women and girls of all ages an hour or less—they are actually on a

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