Steptoe & Johnson Honors Ten Attorneys and Professional Staff as “Women Who Inspire”

BRIDGEPORT, W. Va. – In celebration of Women’s History Month, Steptoe & Johnson is proud to bring back its “Women Who Inspire” series, featuring female leaders who are both friends of the firm and colleagues. Our series launched March 1, and features female leaders of notable companies who share their reflections on women empowerment, opportunities for professional women now and in the future, and the women they have looked up to throughout their careers.

In 2021, Steptoe & Johnson launched the Women Who Inspire series, which honored five female attorneys from the firm for their outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to their clients, colleagues, and community. The 2021 honorees included: Tammie C. Alexander, Susan S. Brewer, Lori A. Dawkins, Susan Llewellyn Deniker, and Sharon O. Flanery.

In bringing back the internal honors this year, staff and attorneys across the firm were asked to nominate their colleagues who uphold the Core Values of the firm, demonstrate leadership and mentorship qualities, exemplify resilience, determination, and empowerment, advocate for others, balance stress and workload with grace, and give time to causes and initiatives to better their communities.

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The 2024 Attorneys and Professional Staff honorees include (in alphabetical order):

Valerie Bone
Office Manager
Charleston, WV
“Valerie is always willing to go above and beyond, no matter what it takes to help, encourage, lead, and be an awesome example. She is willing to help attorneys, clients, visitors, and staff in any way possible with a gracious attitude.”

Bobbie Conklin
Director of Business Development
Morgantown, WV
“Bobbie has been a leader and mentor, and she is embedded in the firm’s culture. She knows great details about the practices of our partners across the country and helps connect the dots to improve collaboration.”

Marcia DePaula
Member
Pittsburgh, PA
“Marcia is an excellent ambassador for the firm in all respects. Marcia captures all the core values of the firm. In particular, her dedication to her clients and coworkers, excellent work product, willingness to assist with matters (even when busy), and great sense of humor. All of which inspire those who have the pleasure of working with her.”

Carrie Edwards
Coordinator of Litigation Department
Bridgeport, WV
“Carrie’s work ethic and dedication to the firm is exemplified every day through her great work, especially on the whirlwind days. Her determination day-in and day-out over the years has been empowering and inspiring.”

Sarah Ellis
Member
Charleston, WV
“Sarah is always gracious, respectful, and approachable, even on her worst days, moments, and under stress. She always has five minutes to spare, gives good advice about any topic, and can get you to someone who knows the answer to your questions.”

Demi Johnson
Legal Administrative Assistant/Receptionist
Dallas, TX
“Demi is a real-life SHERO. She comes in every day, smiles, and shines her light. Demi is humble, has a genuine heart, and inspires us all to live and fight through whatever situation we may be going through.”

Shawn Morgan
Member
Bridgeport, WV
“Shawn really embodies the ability to balance her family and work life. She is always a team player when working with her and she’s willing to step in and provide assistance when needed.”

Melissa Munson
Member
The Woodlands, TX
“Melissa is a brilliant attorney, and she does it all with grace, kindness, and inclusivity. I wish everyone could be just like her!”

Jen Trippett
Director of Professional & Staff Development
Morgantown, WV
“Jen has never-ending creativity and is always working hard to make the firm better. She mentors new lawyers all with great dedication and flair. She’s never in a bad mood and always jumps in to help anyone who needs her.”

Kristen Andrews Wilson
Member
Wheeling, WV
“Kristen is a joy to work with and exhibits all the best qualities we expect in our colleagues here: tenacity, “smarts”, diligence, good humor, grace, wisdom, and creativity.”