Our affinity groups comprise lawyers who come together because of shared experiences or backgrounds and who provide professional and business development support to one another. These groups exemplify our commitment to support, encourage, and retain lawyers through informal mentoring, internal networking, and business development support. The groups are open to all Ballard Spahr lawyers.
Ballard Women
This dynamic group of partners cultivates and showcases the distinguished skills of the firm's female lawyers in a number of ways. Its members interact with clients, particularly women executives and business owners, in settings outside the typical business development arena. These partners serve as mentors to the associates and participate in professional development programs. They are champions of client service, community service, and diversity in the profession.
Contact:
Lynn E. Rzonca, 215.864.8109, rzoncal@ballardspahr.com
K. Allison White, 303.299.7324, whiteka@ballardspahr.com
Female Non-Partner Lawyers Group
The group facilitates internal and external networking as well as professional development activities that support the success and advancement of women in the firm. The group organizes internal programs on various topics, fosters mentoring and personal achievement, and encourages the exchange of ideas. Together with Ballard Women, they are a resource to law students and associate lawyers in developing the next generation of strong and confident female professionals.
Contact:
Alexandra Bak-Boychuk, 215.864.8123, bakboychuka@ballardspahr.com
Melanie J. Vartabedian, 801.517.6842, vartabedianm@ballardspahr.com
Diverse Non-Partner Lawyers Group
The Diverse NPL Group seeks to establish and build relationship connections through the firm. The group meets regularly to discuss leadership, retention, recruitment, mentoring, and developing opportunities. The group also strives to promote and further the recruiting/hiring initiatives of the firm’s Diversity Council. Members provide outreach to diverse law students to encourage and support their entry into the profession, as well. They seek ways to maximize our diversity in creating positive visibility and relationships in the diverse business communities and external organizations.
Contact:
Tejal K. Mehta, 215.864.8232, mehtat@ballardspahr.com
Work-Life flexibility Group
Partners and nonpartners, men and women, full-time and part-time, this group draws all who want to talk about how to be their best at work and at home. This group addresses a range of issues, from maternity leave to work choices and career goals.
Contact:
Lila Shapiro-Cyr, 410.528.5624, shapirocyr@ballardspahr.com
Ellen O'Brien Kauffmann, 303.299.7314, kauffmanne@ballardspahr.com
Equality Ballard: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Lawyers and Friends
Equality Ballard provides opportunities for business and professional development and outreach to the LGBT community. The group promotes and furthers the recruiting initiatives of the firm’s Diversity Council. Through internal networking, the group strives to maintain a supportive environment, and through pro bono outreach and civic and philanthropic work, its members have an impact on the communities where they live and work.
Contact:
Laura E. Krabill, 215.864.8848, krabilll@ballardspahr.com
Lindsey Ermey, 215.864.8414, ermeyl@ballardspahr.com