What role has the support of other women played in your success?
I joined the law firm Cohen & Grigsby in 2009, after having been recruited by a woman litigator who led both the hiring committee and the litigation group. New to the city of Pittsburgh and as the only African American in the Firm, I knew it would be a difficult path and that I needed someone on my team who would support me. I am grateful for the critical role that she played in my development as a lawyer and in helping make me a partner.
Are you where you thought you would be and how did you get here?
I want to help people solve their legal problems and build my own book of business. I was focused on the goal of making partner and so my first seven years of my career I may not have realized the challenges in building my own network and converting it to business. I am extremely proud of how far I have come in my career and continue to push myself harder in order to create my own opportunities.
What would you tell other women about overcoming obstacles?
“When you doubt your power, you give power to your doubt.” Honoré de Balzac
Far too often we are our own worst enemy. We psych ourselves into believing that obstacles automatically mean failure. However, anything worth having is worth working hard for. Set your goals and then stay focused on them. Finally, do not be afraid to ask for help along the way.
On Sunday, July 11, 2021, we will have a private ceremony to celebrate Katie and other awesome women just like her.
