TOLEDO, OH – The national law firm Shumaker is pleased to announce that Kristen Connelly has joined the firm as the Attorney Development Officer. She will utilize her more than two decades of legal and recruiting experience to promote the professional growth and success of the firm’s attorneys. Kristen’s primary focus is to guide associates as they develop into successful partners. Additionally, she will focus on initiatives related to the recruitment, development, and advancement of lawyers at all levels while working closely with firm leadership.
“Shumaker invests in and supports our lawyers to reach their highest potential. Kristen brings a wealth of experience to this position and will be an incredible resource to our lawyers as they develop from associates to partners and provide value to the clients they serve,” said Chairman Tom Dillon.
“Kristen’s vast experience as an attorney paired with her magnetic personality make her absolutely perfect for this position. She has a natural ability to connect with individuals, and she will have the freedom to make her mark as she assists us in developing and retaining top-notch talent,” shared Partner and Management Committee Member Sharon Fulop. “Kristen will establish programming for newer Shumaker attorneys to assist them in honing their legal skills and developing and strengthening their individual talents, characteristics, and capabilities.”
Prior to joining Shumaker, Kristen spent more than 20 years practicing law at Toledo firms, where her primary focus was on defense of claims for professional negligence against physicians, nurses, hospitals, and nursing homes. She also counseled and represented clients in matters before the Ohio State Boards of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, and Pharmacy. In addition to her legal practice, Kristen served on the Recruitment Committees at her previous firms.
“Shumaker’s commitment to the development of its associates will not only result in successful lawyers and client relationships, but also create a better work life and connection to the firm and community for the attorneys,” Kristen said. “By focusing on the growth of each attorney, the firm as a whole benefits. I am excited to join Shumaker in this role.”