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Barnes & Thornburg LLP
University of Illinois College of Law
Why did you decide to enter the legal profession?
I wanted to be a lawyer since I was a little girl. I did not understand the concept of purpose then, but I do now. And what I know now is that practicing law was definitively a part of the plan of Dawn, as it affords me the opportunity day in and day out to build people, which is ultimately why I exist.
What does “diversity, equity and inclusion” mean to you?
Each are distinct concepts that warrant respect and require dedicated attention in their own right. But at bottom, the work of diversity, equity and inclusion is about seeing people as human first, as capable, as worthy of opportunity, of a second chance, of the benefit of the doubt, regardless of their immutable characteristics. This is why this work matters.
Why is DEI important to the legal profession?
First, the legal profession (like every other profession), is powered by people. At bottom again, the work of diversity, equity and inclusion is people work.
Accordingly, there must be a commitment to the success of those people in all respects. Such a commitment is incomplete (indeed, not authentic) if it does not include everyone. The work of diversity, equity and inclusion is critical to this end.
Second, the legal profession exists to advance justice. The fight to make room for our uniqueness, to ensure that all have what they specifically need to succeed, to ensure that all are included, are each synonymous with same.
Why has DEI become so controversial?
It has always been controversial and for the same reason—hate is real. But I stand firm in my belief that while hate is very real, it cannot win because the legions of us who believe in change on this front will not quit regardless of whether they remove programs, departments or back away from the work entirely. For those of us truly committed to this work, quitting is not even an option.
What advice would you give to young attorneys?
You belong in every room you enter. You are smart, capable, and earned your spot. Show up and be amazing. If you are the only one in the room, be the only one in the room. Teach them why having you on the team is a game-changer.
How do you spend your free time?
With my family. They are my favorite humans.
What is the most significant change you’ve seen in the legal profession since you began your career?
I was the only Black woman lawyer in our firm when I began in 1996 and the first Black woman to make equity partner in 2005. Representation in our profession as a whole was not a thing. That is no longer true. So much work remains, but the legal profession is shifting in the right direction.
What was your favorite—and least favorite—class in law school?
I did not like law school—or rather, law school did not like me. But if I had to pick a favorite, it was actually my tax law courses. In fact, for a short time I wanted to do that work. That didn’t last long.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Trust God!
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