On Wednesday, June 29, 2022, the Women in the Profession (WIP) Section had the pleasure of hosting its 22nd Annual Woman of Achievement Award Luncheon at Piedmont Driving Club. This year’s distinguished honoree was the Honorable Susan E. Edlein (State Court of Fulton County). Hon. Edlein ascended to the bench by appointment of Governor Sonny Perdue in 2008, following a successful career in private practice as a litigation partner and co-chair of the national Real Estate Litigation team at Holland & Knight LLP. She is no stranger to WIP or to the Atlanta Bar Association, having served in many leadership positions for this and several other community and professional organizations over the years.

The Outstanding Woman in the Professions Achievement Award presented at the luncheon is conferred each year by WIP on a woman who has made significant contributions in furthering the interests of women in the profession, has involvement in activities which assist women in the metropolitan Atlanta community, involvement in professional organizations which assist in promoting and empowering women in the profession, and significant professional achievements.

The outgoing Chair of the Section, Kristin R. Barnhart (The Platt Law Firm), welcomed the approximately 60 guests to the luncheon and gave a few opening remarks recapping the Section’s busy and successful bar year. A dear friend and former partner of Hon. Edlein, Susan W. Kennicott (Holland & Knight LLP), introduced Hon. Edlein and presented her with the award, sharing stories of her uniquely disarming charm, tenacity, and collegiality that paved the way for her successful career. Hon. Edlein then shared her own stories, appreciation for her family, friends, mentors, and mentees in attendance, and even inspirational quotes from Lizzo. Her remarks frequently evoked laughter from the crowd and left attendees feeling inspired to renew their own commitments to collegiality and service to our chosen profession. The incoming Chair of the section, Talis C. Trevino (Holland & Knight LLP), closed out the luncheon by thanking Hon. Edlein, Barnhart, and all those present for their attendance.

The event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Section Director Karen English (Atlanta Bar). The Women in the Profession Section would also like to extend its gratitude to its sponsors: Barnes & Thornburg LLP, Carrie Calla with Harry Norman, The Platt Law Firm, The Saylor Law Firm, and Trustpoint One. The Women in the Profession Section is looking forward to an exciting Bar year ahead! We hope everyone continues to have a great Summer and we will see you at our events that will be picking up in the Fall.