Corp! Magazine has recognized Warner Norcross + Judd LLP with a Diversity Focused Company award as part of its Salute to Diversity educational event and awards celebration.
Warner was nominated by the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce and selected as an honoree for its continued corporate responsibility and diversity initiatives that promote a truly inclusive environment where individuals are valued for their talent and have the ability to reach their full potential.
Additional factors included the law firm’s support of at-risk minority groups during the COVID-19 crisis, devotion of resources for the improvement of the community-at-large and operations that go “above and beyond” to respond to challenges tied to diversity, equity and inclusion.
“Warner believes in providing a supportive environment to all its employees and contributing to the greater good for the communities where we live and work,” said Managing Partner Douglas A. Dozeman. “We are grateful for this honor, which underscores our efforts toward continuous improvement in diversity, equity and inclusion.”
As part of the nomination process, the firm shared how its internal DEI policies and practices, financial investments in community organizations, pro bono legal work, volunteerism, scholarship programs and other community initiatives help move the community forward.
In 2019, the firm hired a diversity consultant to aid in an internal benchmarking survey and focus groups designed to help implement a more targeted action plan to strengthen diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. The firm also expanded DEI efforts by forming a Diversity, Equity + Inclusion Action Committee. The firm’s statements regarding racism and social injustice, as well as diversity, equity and inclusion are focused on action.
Annually, the firm offers two scholarship programs for students of color. One awards up to $1,500 to allow students to take an LSAT preparation course, and the other is a Diversity Law Scholarship, which awards $5,000 to a law school student and $2,000 to a paralegal/legal assistant student or $1,000 to a legal secretarial student. Both are are managed by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation.
Since 2005, Warner has honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by coordinating a Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest open to sixth graders within the Grand Rapids Public Schools district. The contest encourages students to reflect on the lasting impact of King’s teachings and consider how they continue to advance his work. The contest engages more than 15 schools and 350 students.
Warner invests annually to support DEI-related programs within the communities where it has offices. Some organizations the firm supports include: Ottawa County Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance, Gateways for Growth, Great Lakes Bay Pride Festival, Grand Rapids Chamber OutPro, Young Professionals of Color Conference and many more.
Attorneys also provide pro bono work to assist individuals and organizations in our community, and firm members invest many hours of volunteer time assisting community organizations that support marginalized populations. Attorneys and staff volunteer for, hold leadership positions with and contribute financially to numerous organizations focused on the arts and performing arts, housing, racial equity and justice, children and youth, physical and mental health, LGBTQ+, women’s issues, food insecurity and other areas that personally resonate with them.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Warner has made several financial contributions to support at-risk groups. The firm has invested in initiatives to address racial and social injustice, including the creation of jobs for young adults, prioritizing those most heavily impacted by disproportionate outcomes. Warner has also donated to flood relief efforts in support of the Midland area, which suffered a devastating 500-year flood in May.
About Warner
By providing discerning and proactive legal advice, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP builds a better partnership with our clients. One of Michigan’s largest law firms, we’re focused on providing the best legal solutions and exceptional client service to organizations throughout the world. Connect with us on wnj.com, LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook.
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