Laura El-Sabaawi and Ashley Criss Selected for Leadership Council on Legal Diversity Programs

April 9, 2021

Washington, DC – Wiley has selected Laura El-Sabaawi, partner in the firm’s International Trade Practice, for the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity’s 2021 Fellows Program. Ms. El-Sabaawi will participate in a year-long, in-depth program designed to attract, inspire, and nurture the next generation of leaders in the legal profession. Ms. El-Sabaawi represents domestic industries in trade remedy litigation in areas including steel products, renewable energy products, and wood products, as well as counseling on export controls, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, and national security issues.

Insurance Practice associate Ashley L. Criss will participate in the LCLD Pathfinder Program designed for high-performing, early career lawyers from diverse backgrounds. The program assists attorneys with critical career development strategies, including leadership and the development of professional networks. Ms. Criss litigates civil cases in the insurance practice in federal and state courts nationwide, with a focus on defense of professionals in malpractice suits, complex insurance coverage disputes arising under professional liability, general liability, and directors and officers liability policies, and appellate litigation.

“I am elated that the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity has selected Laura and Ashley to represent Wiley in their LCLD Fellows and Pathfinders Program. This is a phenomenal opportunity for them to further enhance their leadership capabilities while also expanding their networks in recognition of their strong commitment to fostering a culture of belonging at Wiley,” said Rashida MacMurray-Abdullah, Wiley’s Chief Diversity Officer. “Wiley is proud of our six-year partnership with LCLD in creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive legal profession. We share LCLD’s commitment and we are thrilled to be a part of the professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities that LCLD offers to its program participants and member organizations.”

Incoming LCLD Fellows will have access to several new virtual events this year, which will provide opportunities for small-group interaction and relationship building with their peers. These new virtual events are in addition to the exclusive leadership and professional-development curriculum, which has been adapted to the virtual environment.

The LCLD Pathfinders will learn practical ways for developing and leveraging internal professional networks, foundational leadership skills, and an understanding of career development strategies. In addition to being matched with a mentor, several new virtual events will provide this year’s Pathfinders with opportunities for small-group interaction and relationship building with their peers.

Founded in 2009, LCLD is a growing organization of more than 350 corporate chief legal officers and law firm managing partners who are personally committed to creating a more diverse and inclusive legal profession.