Subscriber Benefit
As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now
Cummins Inc.
University of Michigan Law School
Why did you decide to enter the legal profession?
I learned about Thurgood Marshall and the impact he had as a lawyer. While working with the NAACP legal defense fund, he helped to dismantle segregation in public education and public places. It was clear so much more needed to be done to achieve equality and equity for women and underrepresented minorities. After taking a few political science classes in undergraduate school, it seemed very clear to me that the law, legal profession and the intersection with our political institutions all play a critical role in securing civil rights, equity and equality of opportunity.
What does “diversity, equity & Inclusion” mean to you”?
DEI is deeply personal to me, as I’ve had to navigate and overcome significant barriers due to both race and gender throughout my career. These principles mean creating opportunities and breaking down systemic biases so that future generations won’t have to work twice as hard to achieve success. DEI represents fairness, recognition, and the pursuit of excellence through diverse perspectives and experiences.
Why is DEI important to the legal profession?
DEI is essential in the legal profession because it ensures that the justice system reflects the diverse communities it serves, promoting fairness and trust in the law and in our society at large. A diverse legal workforce brings varied perspectives that enrich decision-making and enhance problem-solving, leading to more equitable outcomes. Moreover, embracing DEI helps to address systemic biases, fostering a legal environment that should seek to be more accessible and more just for all individuals.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Thriving in your career is about “patience and persistence.”
What advice would you give to young attorneys?
Law school teaches you how to think like a lawyer, it does not teach you how to practice law. So, spend the first several years learning how to become a great practicing and thinking lawyer.
How do you spend your free time?
Cooking and catching up with family. I am thrilled that I can do both at the same time!
What is the most significant change you’ve seen in the legal profession since you began your career?
While there is a long way to go, there has been a significant increase in women and underrepresented minorities in the legal profession since I entered the legal profession in 1982.
What was your favorite – and least favorite – class in law school?
Civil Procedure was my least favorite. At the time, it made no sense. As I began my practice of law and had cases in court, it made perfect sense! Favorite was Constitutional Law. It is an amazing document with a rich and conflicting history of interpretation.
Why has DEI become so controversial?
The desire to destroy the hard-fought and hard-won victories of dismantling systemic racism. However, a review of U.S. history aptly demonstrates this attempted retrenchment is not new.
Read more Diversity in Law profiles.
Please enable JavaScript to view this content.