In celebration of Women's History Month, Becker showcases the inspiration, philosophies, and expertise of the women attorneys and lobbyists who help elevate our firm and client service.
LaToya Sheals is an experienced Government Relations Consultant, regularly investigating and analyzing legislation and developing public policy on issues such as healthcare, education, transportation, economic development, taxes and judicial matters within Florida, Michigan, and Washington, D.C. Prior to joining Becker, LaToya served as a Legislative Aide to Florida Senator Victor Torres and as the Chief of Staff for Former State Senator Daphne Campbell. In both positions, she advised on policy-related decisions and was responsible for draft legislation, press releases, speeches, special reports and legislative updates.
What woman inspires you and why?
My mother. You always love for your mother, flaws and all, but
there is something to be said about that moment when you can
appreciate your mother's journey as a woman – and she can
do the same with you. To see her strength, her sense of calmness,
and her unconditional love is always an inspiration to me. I
appreciate the long talks and the life lessons that she has
instilled in me; she has truly molded me into the woman I am
today.
If you could have dinner with anyone alive or dead, who
would it be and why?
My older sister passed when she was 15 years old and I was eight.
Although she had cerebral palsy and didn't speak, it would be
nice to be in her presence again as adults, as women, as
sisters.
What advice (professional or personal) would you give
your younger self?
At times, I wish my younger self would give advice to me now as an
adult. I was so invincible and fearless. If I had to give my
younger self advice, it would be to remain faithful, humble, and
grateful. Also, always be kind. There was a period in my life where
I didn't practice any of those attributes; I had an ego out of
this world. Thankfully, I matured and realized that everything I
have received is a blessing, and I am extremely grateful. Oh and
one final thought: Always, always, always BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!
What led you to the practice of law and/or to your
specific area of law
When I was younger, I wanted to be a prosecutor. I was fascinated
by legal shows, and I knew that I wanted to be of service to
others. In college, I interned with the Florida House of
Representatives and really appreciated the legislative process. It
was exciting to be in the room with those who actually created the
law. I went off to law school with the mindset that I was going to
be a prosecutor...until I did my first Mock trial. Although a fun
experience, it was not for me – it was too dramatic! I
switched gears and thought to myself, no one would have to
prosecute or defend an individual if the law was written correctly
in the first place; why not be an attorney that writes laws. Having
that mindset led me to working for the Michigan Senate, the U.S.
House of Representatives, the Florida Senate, and, now, to Becker.
This legal/legislative journey has been amazing thus far, and I am
excited for the future.
What has living through a global pandemic taught
you?
I always considered myself to be an empathetic and patient person.
I believe that the pandemic has allowed me to utilize those skills
more. It has definitely shown me to never judge. You have no idea
what people are going through, to be rude and negative is
unnecessary. As stated earlier, it is important to always be kind.
Kindness goes a long way.
To learn more about LaToya, please click here.