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CONNECTICUT LEGAL AWARDS JUNE 7, 2021 ■ S-25

Keeping the Conversation Going:

2021’s Diversity Initiative Awards

By Michael Marciano

Diversity and inclusion are at the policy forefront for Connecticut firms.
hrough staff-wide events, community outings shares her experiences as a Muslim and Pakistani-
and official policy updates, Connecticut law American attorney, Khalid is a mentor for attorneys
Tfirms flourished with diversity-focused initia- with young children, having been elevated to part-
tives over the past year, putting inclusiveness at the ner while on maternity leave. She also co-chairs
top of the agenda. Individuals and firms showed Wiggin & Dana’s Community Service and Public
their commitment by encouraging members to talk Interest Committee.
about issues of race, gender and culture, and to bring Amanda C. Nugent, Carmody Torrance Sandak
their concerns to the table. & Hennessey
The following winners of Diversity Initiative Amanda Nugent co-chairs Carmody’s Diversity
awards from the 2021 Connecticut Legal Awards Equity & Inclusion team alongside firm Managing
are just a sampling of the many programs that have Partner Richard L. Street and has been the princi-
sprung up across the state, led by people who are pal force behind its continued growth and success.
dedicated to fairness and equity on the job and in Under her leadership, the DEI team has sponsored
their provision of legal services. numerous events on issues including racial jus-
Najia Khalid, Wiggin & Dana tice, making allies, the importance of mentors and
Najia Khalid leads Wiggin & Dana’s immigration implicit bias. The talks are open to all employees—
and nationality law and compliance practice group lawyer and non-lawyer, reflecting Nugent’s belief
and is the firm’s first attorney focusing entirely on that everyone should be included in the effort. With
immigration law. She is the point person for the Nugent’s encouragement, several staff members
firm’s D&I efforts in recruiting, retention and pro- have picked up the ball, taking on leading roles.
fessional development. A frequent speaker who ■ Continued on PAGE S-26

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