Recently, we hosted a virtual diversity summit with 250 attendees across the country, representing 61 law schools. Student attendees heard from Wilson Sonsini attorneys, Wilson Sonsini alumni, and current clients of the firm.
Our kicked-off with a welcome address by Danica You, Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Wilson Sonsini. Our Diverse Paths in Law Panel followed, with panelists Chantal Morgan D’Apuzzo, Associate General Counsel at Caltech, Amanda Urquiza, Corporate Partner at Wilson Sonsini, Paul Watford, Litigation Partner at Wilson Sonsini, and Phil Wong, Associate General Counsel at Andreessen Horowitz, and moderator, Maneesha Mithal, Regulatory & Compliance Partner at Wilson Sonsini. The panelists delved into their different backgrounds, discussed how they sought out mentorship early on in their careers, and advised students on navigating the present legal recruiting process.
Next up was our Demystifying Practice Groups Panel which featured Jamillia Ferris, Regulatory & Compliance Partner, Tarek Helou, Litigation Partner, Christina Poulsen, Corporate Partner, and Derrick Rowe, Patents and Innovations Partner, as panelists, and was moderated by Miranda Biven, Technology Transactions Partner. Each panelist talked about how they found their niche gave advice on exploring practice areas while networking on campus, and provided insights on getting relevant experience while in law school.
Rounding out the day of speakers, Phuong Phillips, Chief Legal Officer at Aledade, and Allison Blixt, Chief Professional Development, Engagement and Inclusion Officer at Wilson Sonsini, held our keynote address. Attendees learned about Phuong’s journey into the legal field, heard advice for first-generation lawyers, including tips on networking and mentoring, and how to navigate an ever-competitive field.
The summit concluded with a closing address by Cherie Beffa, our Chief Attorney Recruiting Officer, where she left attendees with pieces of advice on how to move forward and to stay connected as the recruiting season amps up.
Wilson Sonsini is committed to the principle that diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital components of a thriving organization. Diversity of thought, experience, identity, and background, as well as an inclusive culture, enable our firm to deliver greater value to our clients, provide a welcoming environment for all of our employees, and make meaningful, lasting contributions to our internal and external communities.
Introduced in 2020, the Wilson Sonsini 1L Diversity Summit brings together law students from around the country for practical workshops, panels, and networking opportunities. The Summit’s mission is to provide concrete advice about the legal industry and make the law firm recruitment process more accessible and transparent for all law students.