Quick snapshot: I am the Managing Attorney for Environmental Litigation and Policy at Southern Company. Prior to that, I managed a group of lawyers at Georgia Power, and I began my career as an environmental lawyer at Morris, Manning & Martin. Before working as a lawyer, I was a newspaper reporter. I graduated from the University of Florida with a B.S. in Journalism, from Columbia University with an M.S. in Journalism, and from the University of Michigan for law school. I sit on the board of the Chattahoochee Nature Center, which is one of the most beautiful spots in metro Atlanta, and just retired from the board of Buckhead Christian Ministry, a wonderful ministry that provides assistance to the working poor.
How did you get involved with Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation? I participated in a Domestic Violence (now Safe Families) training 10 years ago and was hooked. I had prior volunteer experience as a domestic violence crisis counselor, and AVLF offered a great opportunity to serve that community that was so close to my heart.
Give us your best elevator pitch – what does AVLF mean to you? AVLF connects first-rate lawyers with clients in often desperate, immediate need, providing volunteers with the chance to do affirming, challenging, rewarding, and life-changing work that strengthens our Atlanta community, one legal victory at a time.
What is your favorite AVLF moment? The first time I won a protective order, which was also my first time appearing in any courtroom. I was more nervous than the client. She was, of course, more brave.
What are you proudest of professionally? I am proudest of the supportive team dynamic in the legal department at Georgia Power. They are a high-performing group of exceptional lawyers who are also great people. They laugh a lot. I’m proud to have had a part in pulling them together.
And personally? My eight-year-old nephew recently gave me a card with a picture of a rainbow-haired unicorn. The inscription read, “Not as awesome as you.” Best compliment I’ve ever received.
