Diversity and Inclusion
Janet H. Linton
Chair
In my view, diversity and inclusion is about equity and social responsibility. To that end, our goal as a committee is to not only promote diversity, but to ensure that we as a Firm are creating a work environment that values and embraces different ideas and perspectives, provides equal access to opportunities and resources, and allows everyone to have a voice and seat at the table. Diversity, inclusion and equity fosters innovation and collaboration, as differing perspectives and experiences allow us to better identify, address and resolve legal issues. We are able to consider perspectives that might otherwise be overlooked, undervalued, or dismissed, so that together we can fully contribute to the Firm’s and our clients’ success, and carry these values into the community at large.
Dina G. Aouad
Vice Chair
As a woman of color in the legal field, I am thrilled to serve as a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. I am proud to promote diversity in every sense of the word and help cultivate an inclusive environment at Jennings Strouss consisting of diverse cultures, experiences, and backgrounds at all levels of the Firm. A diverse workforce is crucial for developing diverse perspectives, which leads to innovation. I look forward to continuing the committee’s work on expanding diversity and inclusion within Jennings Strouss and making the Firm a welcoming place where anyone can feel at home and valued.
Kayte del Real
Secretary
I am committed to helping change the climate of our organization to be a more culturally supportive and sensitive place to work, to help employees feel that their perspectives are recognized and respected, and that their workplace is open, safe and welcoming to all backgrounds and identities. My goal for the Diversity & Inclusion Committee is to help our employees have a better understanding of the impact their interactions have on one another, and on the community. That will, in turn, lay the foundation for a better balanced and more open and inclusive environment.
Brenda J. Bicking
Committee Member
Workplace diversity promotes growth and opportunities for better decision-making through more effective collaboration, increased creativity, and expansion of our collective experience. JSS is committed to providing exceptional service to its clients, many of whom respect us for our 80 years of thought leadership on a variety of legal issues. Our ability to continue to deliver the best service depends on our access to a greater range of talent which challenges us to think in new ways, innovate, and evolve in our understanding of leadership. Diversity makes us stronger, more agile, and better able to continue to provide our clients with excellent legal services in an ever changing world.
Brad D. Frandsen
Committee Member
In today’s world, having a diverse and inclusive workplace isn’t just a preference, it’s a requirement. As members of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, we strive to create an atmosphere where everyone has a seat at the table. We understand and recognize that diverse and inclusive workplaces lead to better cultures, more innovative solutions, and superior client results.
Kimber R. Howard
Committee Member
I see diversity everywhere in our society. To society, “I am diversity.” In many cases, companies approach diversity by numbers, but it can’t stop there; diversity is also a sphere of influence and a platform to educate. Inclusion is more difficult to achieve as the success of inclusion is intangible and is not seen but felt by people acknowledging their conscience biases. Inclusion is hard work but can be accomplished by changing hearts and minds, implementing innovative approaches, and changes in systems and hierarchies to usher in a cohesive work environment and society.
Patrick F. Welch
Committee Member
I’ve always taken the view that we are all global citizens. Diversity and inclusion are two key pillars supporting our global community. I really enjoy my work on the Diversity and Inclusion Committee because it gives the opportunity to work with people within and outside the firm that seek to champion a more diverse and inclusive society.
The Law Firm Alliance
Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is honored to be a member of The Law Firm Alliance (LFA), a strategic
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