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Recently, we hosted the 1L Diversity Summit virtually with 250 attendees from across the country, representing 61 law schools. Student attendees heard from Wilson Sonsini attorneys, alumni, and executive staff, as well as current clients of the firm.
Our events kicked-off with a welcome address by Danica You, Wilson Sonsini’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Our Diverse Paths in Law Panel followed, moderated by firm partner Maneesha Mithal (Regulatory & Compliance), which highlighted client panelists Chantal Morgan D’Apuzzo, Associate General Counsel at Caltech, and Phil Wong, Associate General Counsel at Andreessen Horowitz, along with Wilson Sonsini partners Amanda Urquiza (Corporate) and Paul Watford (Litigation). 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. This session was moderated by Miranda Biven, a partner in the firm’s Technology Transactions practice and featured partners from key groups at Wilson Sonsini as panelists: Jamillia Ferris (Regulatory & Compliance), Tarek Helou (Litigation), Christina Poulsen (Corporate), and Derrick Rowe (Patents and Innovations). Each panelist talked about how they found their area of expertise, 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, 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.
Click here to sign up for our mailing list and be notified when applications open for our next 1L Diversity Summit!