Our speakers are accomplished female business executives who have counseled boards on a variety of strategic initiatives and “bet the company” issues. DirectWomen speakers are considered thought leaders on current topics related to governance and boardroom diversity. Speaking topics include “Gender and Cultural Diversity in the Boardroom,” “Why Washington Matters in the Boardroom,” “Reputation and Governance,” “Compliance and Ethics,” and many others. A full list of suggested speaking topics can be provided upon request.

DirectWomen Speakers Bureau staff will contact you within two business days of your initial contact to us, and will assist you to match an appropriate speaker with the needs and interests of your target audience. Our staff will suggest several speakers. The speaker you select will work with you to customize her presentation to your target audience. For additional information, or to make a request, contact Sarah Gevlin at (212) 735-7385 or sgevlin@directwomen.org.

Senior Partner
Fine, Kaplan and Black, R.P.C.
Philadelphia, PA

Partner
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
New York, NY

Vice President, Marketing and Executive Leadership Initiatives
Catalyst
New York, NY

Walter D. Coles Professor of Law and Professor of Management
Washington University School of Law
St. Louis, MO

Of Counsel
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
New York, NY

Retired

Formerly Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel

Fannie Mae

Warren,OH

Chair
Senior Partner

Squire Sanders & Dempsey, L.L.P.

Cleveland, OH

DirectWomen accomplishes its mission by:

• Providing strategic career development and networking opportunities to women exiting the active practice of business law who wish to continue contributing to the corporate world;
• Reinforcing the merits of gender diversity in the minds of corporate directors, and enhancing their appreciation for the tremendous reservoir of seasoned talent that senior women business law practitioners represent;
• Facilitating access of executive search firms to well-qualified women attorney candidates for independent director positions;
• Recognizing and honoring women attorneys who serve on the boards of public companies, lead corporate America and epitomize the value of diversity in the boardroom with the Sandra Day O’Connor Board Excellence Award.