Holland & Knight Partner Dianne Phillips Honored as "Top Woman of Law"

BOSTON – July 28, 2011 – Holland & Knight is pleased to announce that Dianne Phillips, a partner in the firm's Boston office, has been named a "Top Woman of Law" for 2011 by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. She is among 37 members of the legal community being honored by the publication for their outstanding accomplishments in social justice, advocacy and business.

Phillips is being recognized for her trailblazing efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion, particularly with respect to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues. She has served as co-chair of Holland & Knight's national Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Affinity Group and the Boston office's Diversity Council, and remains an active member of the firm's national Diversity Council. She also provides strategic advice and guidance with respect to Holland & Knight's hiring, recruitment, retention, mentoring and training initiatives. In addition, Phillips has been a member of the board of directors of the Gay & Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD) since 2006, becoming vice president in 2009.

"Dianne's efforts to ensure Holland & Knight's commitment to diversity as a business practice are unmatched," said Steve Wright, executive partner of the firm's Boston office. "She has worked tirelessly to ensure that we continue to find ways to create opportunities for advancement for our minority staff and attorneys. Her impact in advancing diversity within the firm, the greater Boston legal community and the Commonwealth as a whole is immeasurable."

Phillips will receive the award at a luncheon ceremony on September 23 at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston. She joins the ranks of 119 women who have been recognized by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly over the past three years.