Crain's Chicago Business has recognized three partners as Notable Women in Law for the impact they have made through their practices, their professional and civic leadership, and for mentoring other female attorneys.

Crain's cited the achievements of Leslie Minier, Corporate partner and chief diversity partner, Kimberly Smith, global Corporate Department chair, and Jennifer Wolfe, Private Credit partner.

"Their stories, separately and collectively, brilliantly illustrate the sheer power of women in law," Crain's editors said about the 2022 honorees.

Leslie's recognition highlights her focus on achieving greater diversity, equity and inclusion and increasing the representation of diverse attorneys at Katten and in the legal profession. Notably, Leslie was instrumental in helping Katten achieve Mansfield Rule 4.0 Certification Plus status, meaning Katten reached at least 30 percent underrepresented lawyer representation in key leadership roles. As a member of the firm's diversity committee and chair of the business development subcommittee, Leslie advises on business development opportunities and consults with firm management on diversity goals and strategies.

About Kimberly, Crain's features her focus on growing the firm’s client base and attracting and retaining top talent. While serving as the global Corporate Department head and serving on Katten's board, Kimberly continues to close deals for longtime clients. A sought-after speaker and industry authority, Kimberly also serves on Katten's Women's Leadership Forum's mentoring panel and on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago board.

Jennifer's recognition noted her role in helping craft Katten's expanded parental leave and the KattenFlex policy enabling attorneys and staff to work remotely. Jennifer co-chairs the partner review committee, which vets candidates for partner, and was a founding member and primary driver of the Katten Women in Finance initiative, supporting associates and junior partners in finance disciplines as well as senior-level women at finance-based clients.

"Crain's 2022 Notable Women in Law," Crain's Chicago Business, September 2, 2022

"Crain's 2022 Notable Women in Law: Leslie Minier," Crain's Chicago Business, September 2, 2022

"Crain's 2022 Notable Women in Law: Kimberly Smith," Crain's Chicago Business, September 2, 2022

"Crain's 2022 Notable Women in Law: Jennifer Wolfe," Crain's Chicago Business, September 2, 2022