WOMEN IN BUSINESS & LAW
then I was one of three recent alumni asked to join the UHLC Alumni Board in an effort to energize recent graduates. While serving on the Alumni Board, I co-chaired the newly formed Young Alumni Committee, which provides networking and career-development events for recent Law Center alumni, and I also developed a “junior” Dean’s Society for recent graduates. I recently finished my two-year tenure as president of the UHLC Alumni Association, and I’m now focused on organizing local UHLC alumni chapters in places like Washington, D.C., the Rio Grande Valley and Dallas. Who and what has influenced you over the course of your career? Starting “over” professionally in the middle of the recession was really humbling – but I think I am better for it. I learned to dig deeper, work smarter, and be ready to be flexible in a changing market. First, my family has been very influential in my career. My husband is my tireless advocate and partner. We got married right before law school, so he has been with me from my first law school exam throughout the years leading up to me becoming partner. He has been incredibly supportive at each step of my professional journey. My parents have also been influential. They have always encouraged me to think big and push harder – with everything I do. And – of course – my kids. Working and parenting is definitely a challenge, no matter what your profession. I don’t like to use the word “balance” – you have to learn what works for you and your family, and be flexible.
Cynthia Mabry is a partner with Akin Gump. Her practice observes capital markets, securities, mergers and acquisitions, and general corporate matters. Mabry represents public and private entities, investors and underwriters in capital markets and during financial transactions, including offerings of equity and debt securities. Reach her at cmabry@akingump.com.
Professionally, there have been so many people who have influenced me. I think that you find something you like about each person you work with – whether it is their work ethic, their presence in a room, or how they manage CORPORATE COUNSEL BUSINESS JOURNAL
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