By: Tracey L. Schroeder
On November 13, the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois proudly hosted its 2025 Top Women Lawyers, Legislators, & Legal Employers in Leadership Awards Reception, honoring outstanding women whose leadership is shaping the legal profession and the communities they serve. The evening also celebrated employers who exemplify a meaningful commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as those advancing workplace flexibility and work–life balance.
Held at Salon 61, the reception brought together colleagues, friends, and supporters for an inspiring evening recognizing women who lead with excellence—and the organizations that support and elevate them. The WBAI extends its sincere thanks to everyone who joined us for this special event, and to our generous sponsors whose support made the evening possible.
Congratulations to the 2025 Honorees:
Top Women Lawyers in Leadership
- Erin Clifford, Managing Director, Clifford Law Offices
- Trisha M. Rich, Partner, Holland & Knight
Top Woman Legislator in Leadership
- Senator Laura Fine, Illinois State Senator, 9th District
Top Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DE&I) Legal Employer
- Malman Law
Top Flexible Workplace Legal Employer
- Hennessy & Roach, P.C.
The WBAI is honored to recognize these remarkable leaders and organizations and thanks them for their continued contributions to advancing equity, leadership, and excellence within the legal profession.
This article was originally published in the WBAI Winter 2026 Newsletter on pages 40-43.