Vice President of Legal Affairs, T-Mobile

“Law firms and corporate law departments are doing great work to promote diversity, pro bono projects, and public service. But many times, that great work is not being recognized. It is important that these efforts are highlighted to show that the legal profession is working to improve society, serve the public, and make our communities a better place.

I think that law firms and corporate law departments will learn from each other and develop best practices so that their work in these areas will improve and continue to grow. And they will get the recognition that they deserve for representing our legal profession in this noble work. I believe that the legal profession has an obligation to use our training and skills to advance justice, fairness, and equity as it is the right thing to do. But that obligation also provides an opportunity. So first, we need to keep on doing what we are doing. Please consider donating to the Texas Lawbook Foundation so that we can continue to spread the word of our legal profession’s good deeds and acts.”

Texas Lawbook Founder

“As The Texas Lawbook enters its 12th year of operation, we wanted to create a new initiative that would focus on the legal profession’s impact on the Texas community. The Lawbook now has more than 13,000 paid subscribers and partnerships with the Houston Chronicle and the Dallas Business Journal. By creating a position that focuses exclusively on pro bono and public service, we are hoping that we can shine a light on the great work lawyers do for the poor, veterans and those who cannot afford — but greatly need — legal counsel. And we hope we provide roadmaps for firms and corporate legal departments on how they can look more like the communities they serve.”

Mattress Firm Senior Counsel and Senior Vice President

“The position helps bring awareness to the valuable and meaningful work that lawyers do in the pro bono, public service and diversity spaces. Writing about these subjects allows us to recognize the work and contributions of our colleagues that work in these spaces, inspire the next generation of attorneys to consider careers in these spaces, and connect people and resources that otherwise may not cross paths (e.g., a unique diversity need with an attorney that can help).”

Pattern Energy Senior Counsel

“As Americans, we have to stay steadfast in our commitment to justice, equality and fairness for all. Employing a dedicated staff writer focused on diversity, pro bono and public service highlights this commitment within the legal community and keeps these topics in the forefront of our minds. I applaud The Texas Lawbook and am honored to serve as a Texas Lawbook Foundation Board Member.”

TechnipFMC Chief Legal Officer

Toyota Motor North America Managing Counsel

“It is important for attorneys to be reminded of the opportunities to pay it forward and give back to their communities. Not with just money but with the actual work to help those in need who can’t afford their services. Natalie is the perfect person to put a spotlight on those opportunities and the attorneys who are already doing the work, and hopefully her articles will inspire more to put in the work.”

Vinson & Elkins Senior Partner and past chair of Texas Access to Justice