It was an honor to serve as Chair of Illinois State Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Women and the Law (“WATL”) to support the committee’s core mission and history of promoting and supporting women and advancing equality, education, and leadership. I had the privilege of chairing WATL while I was a partner of a law firm where I concentrated in matrimonial law. Additionally, I gave birth to my daughter during my year as Chair. The support, encouragement, and advice from WATL members was a critical component of my success both as a mother and a leader.
I’m continually impressed and inspired by WATL’s leadership and membership. I encourage committee members to embrace the notion of networking and utilize WATL as a vehicle to broaden your social circles, form relationships, expand your minds, develop business, engage in service opportunities, and think of new ideas and ways to help advance causes that are uniquely important to women legally, politically, and legislatively.
I was once asked what does it mean to "have it all?" I responded by saying, “having it all consists of having family, friendship, faith, fitness, fun, philanthropy, forward thinking, and a fulfilling career. We can have it all, but we do not always have everything all at the same time.” With patience and perseverance, it’s possible to have a successful career. I encourage women to lean on other women who will lift you up, then be the person who lifts up other women.