Jessica Maroney Shillito has joined Foley Hoag as its Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I). Based in the firm's New York office, Shillito will lead a four-person team dedicated to advancing the firm's DE&I initiatives. She joins from Paul, Weiss.
Shillito brings to the role years of experience as a practicing lawyer, legal recruiting professional, and longstanding DE&I leader. After graduating from Harvard Law School, Shillito worked as an associate at an AmLaw 100 firm in Manhattan. She eventually transitioned into business roles at several law firms. Shillito has been a member of the Association of Law Firm Diversity Professionals (ALFDP) since 2015, and for two years served on its board. She has also been an active member of the National Association for Law Placement (NALP), and has served as a mentor to law students and legal professionals in various capacities since 2004.
"Diversity, equity and inclusion is central to Foley Hoag's mission," said Managing Partner Jim Bucking. "Our clients demand the best and most innovative lawyers to drive their deals and win their cases. I look forward to working with Jess to build on the progress we've made and continue driving our program forward."
Foley Hoag has an award-winning DE&I program focused on legal excellence and community. The firm recently achieved Mansfield Certification Plus for the fourth consecutive year. Earlier this year, the firm received a perfect score for the eleventh consecutive time on the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index and ranked among the top 10 mid-sized law firms in Law360's Diversity Scorecard.
In addition to her role leading Foley Hoag's professional team, Shillito will Co-Chair the firm's DE&I Committee.
"I'm thrilled to join Foley Hoag, a firm that has a deep understanding of the importance of DE&I, which is essential in today's landscape," said Shillito. "I'm excited for the opportunity to lead the team and contribute to a culture of inclusion, supported by engaged leadership and a shared commitment to progress."