Unleashing Our Power: Women of Color Leading with Confidence and Resilience

Welcome to the Corporate Counsel Women of Color and Kirkland & Ellis 19th Annual Career Strategies conference just steps away from our nation’s capital at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. It is with great pleasure and excitement that I extend my warmest greetings to all attendees, speakers, sponsors, and supporters of this remarkable event.

This year we will hear from Tina Knowles (Businesswoman, Philanthropist, and Mother of Beyonce and Solange Knowles); Sharon Y. Bowen (Chair, New York Stock Exchange); and will honor Tamika Tremaglio (CCWC 2023 Diamond Award of Excellence and Executive Director, National Basketball Players Association).

The CCWC Annual Conference has become a beacon of hope, inspiration, empowerment, and connection for women of color in the legal profession. Year after year, this conference has provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, professional development, and the celebration of achievements. It is a testament to the incredible resilience, talent, and leadership of women of color in the corporate legal field.

Laurie Robinson Haden CEO and Founder Corporate Consel Women of Color

• Milbank: Effectively Collaborating with the Board, C-Suite and Execution Committee

• Venable: Maximum Impact: Building Your Brand for Longevity

Additional sessions include ChatGPT, Cybersecurity and Privacy, and IP Trends, just to name a few. You will also enjoy our Women of Color in Leadership; Chief Legal Officer Symposium; and Chief Diversity Officer Summit.

The theme of this year’s conference, “Unleashing Our Power: Women of Color Leading with Confidence and Resilience,” encapsulates the spirit of unity, collaboration, and progress that CCWC stands for. It is a call to action for all attendees to challenge the status quo, dismantle barriers, and create a more inclusive and equitable legal profession for women of color.

Throughout the conference, you will have the opportunity to hear from trailblazing leaders, industry experts, and change-makers who have shattered glass ceilings, overcome obstacles, and paved the way for future generations. Their stories, experiences, and wisdom will undoubtedly inspire and empower you to reach new heights in your own professional journey.

This year’s conference agenda is proof of the commitment to CCWC to address the pressing issues facing women of color in the legal profession. From thought-provoking keynote addresses to engaging panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, this conference offers a wealth of knowledge, insights, and strategies to navigate the ever-evolving legal landscape. This year, we will have over 48 sessions. Our Title Sponsor Kirkland & Ellis will host sessions during the conference entitled, Demystifying Corporate Practice in Big Law: The Future Is Bright for Women of Color in Private Equity, M&A, and Financial Services; Expanding and Transitioning Client Relationships to Create Opportunities for the Next Generation Lawyers; and Women of Color Leaders: The Power They Hold in Corporate America.

Our Dinner Reception Sponsor Hogan Lovells will host a session entitled, Business Development Workshop for Law Firm Partners.

Then enjoy our Wednesday signature sessions by our Diamond Sponsors including:

• FTI: Artificial Intelligence Boot Camp

• Deloitte: MBA for Lawyers Boot Camp

• KPMG: Board Readiness Boot Camp

• Weil, Gotshal & Manges: The Fall of FTX and the Future of Cryptocurrencies

• Covington: Competition on the Merits

• Akin: “Deal or No Deal” Transaction Liability

• Husch Blackwell: A View from the Top: Climbing the Ranks to Equity Partner and Law Firm Management.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the organizers, sponsors, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make this conference a reality. Your dedication and commitment to advancing the careers and well-being of women of color in the legal profession are truly commendable.

To all the attendees, I encourage you to actively participate, engage in meaningful conversations, and forge connections that will last a lifetime. Take advantage of the wealth of knowledge and expertise present at this conference, and seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact. Take time to network at our events including the Apple Kick-Off reception; networking dinners at Succotash, Bond 45, Rosa Mexicano, and Fogo De Chao; and dine-arounds. Make sure to enjoy all of the tours and fun events including TopGolf; wine tasting; movie night; Escape the Room; and events at MGM National Harbor.

On behalf of CCWC, I extend my best wishes for a successful and transformative conference experience. May this gathering serve as a catalyst for change, a source of inspiration, and a testament to the incredible power of women of color in the corporate legal world.

Let us break barriers, build bridges, and create a future where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just aspirations but realities.