The Outstanding Contribution Award recognizes an in-house counsel who made significant contributions to the in-house counsel community. The Outstanding Contribution Award is awarded to a U.S. in-house counsel who exemplifies the highest standards of conduct, professionalism, and service as in-house counsel; has made long-term, significant contributions to the promotion and improvement of the U.S. in-house community; is a champion and advocate of the U.S. in-house counsel community, and is viewed by their peers as a leader and a source of inspiration within the U.S. in-house counsel community.

Thomas Kim
Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary
Gartner

“Thomas Kim embodies the qualities of an outstanding in-house counsel: exceptional leadership, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and a profound impact on the legal community. His contributions serve as a beacon of excellence and inspiration for peers and aspiring legal professionals alike.”

Winnie Ling
Head of Legal & People | General Counsel
Blend Labs, Inc.

“Winnie Ling is a transformational leader whose contributions extend beyond her role as CLO and CHRO at Blend (NYSE: BLND). While she has played a pivotal role in driving Blend’s organizational, operational, and financial success, her most profound impact has been on the in-house counsel community as a whole.”

“Through mentorship, thought leadership, and advocacy, Winnie has redefined the role of in-house counsel—elevating legal professionals into strategic business leaders.”

Brian Thompson
Assistant General Counsel
Dentsu Americas

“Brian Thompson exemplifies the highest standards of conduct, professionalism, and service as in-house and is viewed by his peers as a leader and a source of inspiration within the U.S. in-house counsel community”

“Brian is a champion and advocate of the U.S. in-house counsel community, and ensuring it is diverse, inclusive, and equitable.”

The Employee Wellness Initiative of the Year Award honors a legal department or in-house counsel who has significantly fostered wellness for the workforce through a specific initiative. Amid increasing workloads and heightening work-related stress and anxiety within the legal profession, this award highlights organizational efforts that actively address these critical challenges for the benefit of their employees/team members.

Adobe Legal Team

“In addition to offering best-in-class healthcare benefits, Adobe offers regular programs and events on our campuses. For example: vaccine clinics, biometric screenings, sound bath meditations, access to nutrition and smart eating professionals and a wellbeing reimbursement program.”

“The Wellbeing program of adobe includes physical, emotional, financial, mental health care, wellbeing reimbursement program and support in times of need.”

Kyndryl Legal Team

“The Kyndryl Legal Team has demonstrated exceptional commitment to promoting wellness and the need to exercise, particularly through our innovative initiative, “Movetober” which launched in October 2024.”

“Movetober” exemplifies The Legal Team’s commitment to wellness, teamwork, and community support and wellbeing. We are proud of the positive changes this wellness initiative has brought to our team and the meaningful contribution we have made to St. Jude’s Foundation.”

In-House Trailblazer of the Year celebrates a female in-house counsel who has significantly paved the way for others through her inspirational actions, originality and bravery. This award honors an individual whose unwavering desire to succeed has set a benchmark for excellence. Nominees will have demonstrated leadership, innovative thinking, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Her trailblazing efforts have not only advanced her own career but have also created opportunities and inspired others within the in-house legal community.

Melanie Irvin
VP, Head of Legal & Government Affairs
Branch

“Melanie has been the driving force behind some of Branch’s most critical legal and strategic initiatives. Her unwavering dedication, creative problem-solving, and inclusive leadership set a benchmark for excellence in the in-house legal community.”

“What truly makes Melanie a trailblazer is not just what she accomplishes – it’s how she leads. She is humble and team-oriented, never seeking the spotlight, yet serving as an example for so many around her. She embodies Branch’s Roots (our core competencies) naturally, making her an outstanding model for our culture.”

Winnie Ling
Head of Legal & People | General Counsel
Blend Labs, Inc.

“Winnie Ling is a dynamic executive with a proven track record of driving operational, financial, and cultural transformation. As CLO and CHRO at Blend (NYSE: BLND), she has expanded beyond legal roles to become a strategic leader shaping the company’s long-term success.”

“Winnie’s journey exemplifies the essence of the Female In-House Trailblazer of the Year Award. Her ability to drive change, create opportunities for others, and set a benchmark for excellence makes her a distinguished candidate for this honor.”

Holly Loiseau
Senior Vice President & General Counsel
Caribbean CAGE

“Holly Loiseau is a visionary leader and trailblazer in the legal profession, bringing over 30 years of experience in corporate law, compliance, and governance. As Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Caribbean CAGE LLC, she leads the Legal Affairs and Compliance functions for a multinational enterprise spanning the Caribbean and Latin America.”

“Holly’s impact is not only in the boardroom but also in the broader professional community. She is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, advocating for increased representation and inclusion in the legal profession. Her ability to drive change while mentoring the next generation of leaders makes her a true trailblazer.”

Jamie Strickler
Director, Global Employment & Litigation Counsel
8×8

“Jamie Strickler is a trailblazer in every sense of the word. In addition to overseeing 8×8’s global employment and litigation matters, she has expanded her leadership footprint by taking charge of the company’s compliance program and legal support for procurement, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to integrity, innovation, and mentorship.”

“Through her bravery, originality, and relentless pursuit of excellence, Jamie has not only blazed a trail for women in in-house legal roles but has also created opportunities for others, championed ethical leadership, and set a new standard for legal excellence. Her work has had a profound and lasting impact on 8×8, making her an exemplary candidate for Female In-House Trailblazer of the Year.”

The Action in Diversity & Inclusion Award honors an in-house counsel or legal department that has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to fostering inclusion and diversity in the legal profession. This award recognizes a law department or individual who has implemented tangible and innovative strategies to create and promote diverse and inclusive work environments, whether within their organization or across the broader industry.

Matt Boisen
General Counsel
Highspot

“Through tangible initiatives, structural support, and personal commitment, he has demonstrated what it means to be a true leader in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. His work continues to inspire others and set a standard for how legal professionals can drive meaningful change.”

“Matt approaches his role with genuine curiosity and openness, continuously engaging in meaningful conversations to better understand the experiences, challenges, and heritage… His thoughtful approach fosters psychological safety, making it easier for employees to share perspectives, raise concerns, and co-create impactful initiatives.”

Victoria Hill
Sr. Director of Diversity & Social Impact | DE&I Committee Co-Chair
Advanced Group

“Victoria’s leadership exemplifies how collaborative, innovative DE&I strategies — backed by executive sponsorship, legal alignment, and empowered resource groups — drive cultural transformation, enhance employer brand, and equip both the legal profession and staffing industry with the tools to embed equity into core business practices.”

“Victoria fosters a culture of accountability, belonging, and innovation — driving measurable, lasting change.”

Kyndryl Legal Team

“The Kyndryl Legal Department has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to fostering inclusion and diversity in the legal profession through a number of departmental initiatives…diverse thoughts are welcomed, and we work hard to ensure every Legal Team member feels a sense of belonging.”

“The Kyndryl Legal Team embodies the company’s mission and values, collectively known as “The Kyndryl Way.” This ethos emphasizes empathy for diverse perspectives, continuous innovation, and an unwavering commitment to collective success.”

The Transition to Business Award recognizes an in-house counsel who has successfully moved beyond a traditional legal role within an in-house legal department to take on a business, strategic, or leadership role for an organization outside of the legal department. This individual exemplifies the ability to advance organizational goals from the perspective of a business or organizational partner, rather than solely as a legal advisor. Roles within HR, Risk Management, Finance and other organizational area outside of legal departments are considered for this award.

Ivey Brown
Vice Chancellor for Institutional Integrity & Legal Counsel | Risk Management | Strategy Creation
Winston-Salem State University

“Understanding that legal risk is just one aspect of organizational health, Ivey has embedded compliance, risk, and governance into a holistic decision-making framework. Instead of merely advising on legal matters, Ivey works closely with leaders in finance, human resources, enrolment, and student affairs to develop strategies that align compliance and risk management with institutional growth.”

“Ivey’s transition from a legal-focused role to an executive leadership role aligns perfectly with the spirit of the Transition to Business Award, demonstrating that legal counsel can be a driver of institutional success beyond traditional legal functions.”

Bonnie Chong
Chief Executive Officer & President
Anthony & Sylvan Pools

“How often does a general counsel become the chief strategy officer, then a chief financial officer, and ultimately (and currently) the chief executive officer? Not often. Add to that a woman of color in her 40s? Almost never.”

“Her journey is an inspiring example of how one can effectively bridge the gap between legal and business roles, constantly learn and soak in all the expertise around her, and driving an organization to new heights of success and customer satisfaction.”

Mohaimina Haque
Chief Executive Officer
Tony Roma’s

“Mina Haque exemplifies the essence of the Transition to Business Award, seamlessly evolving from a leading legal strategist to a transformational business leader. Her journey from conducting buy-side due diligence for Tony Roma’s to becoming its CEO while maintaining her legal practice and serving as an adjunct law professor at American University is a rare and remarkable trajectory that underscores her exceptional versatility and business acumen.”

“Mina’s ability to balance legal and business leadership has set a new precedent for in-house counsel transitioning into executive roles. Her innovative approach in integrating legal risk management with strategic business growth demonstrates how a legal background can be a powerful asset in corporate leadership.”

The Up & Comer Award recognizes outstanding emerging in-house counsel in the private or public sector who have been called to the bar within the last 10 years. This award highlights excellence in areas such as significant transactions, strategic initiative management and leadership, resolution of major litigation, mentorship of fellow lawyers, demonstration of integrity, pro-bono work, and professional development.

Paige Anderson-Evans
Legal Counsel
Adobe Inc.

“Her ability to manage intricate details and foresee potential challenges has been instrumental in the success of [these] transactions. She excels at clear communication and building strong professional relationships, which are key skills of successful negotiators.”

“Paige consistently upholds the highest ethical standards, earning the trust and respect of colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. Her commitment to integrity has been a guiding principle in her decision-making processes.”

Anna Crandall
Managing Counsel
Adobe Inc.

“Anna is a rising star in the enterprise technology legal community, currently leading a team of early-career technology licensing attorneys for Adobe Inc… Anna has worked on structuring close partnership relationships between Adobe and many elite consumer brands…”

“Her many impactful contributions include leading the legal function for many of the company’s efforts to incorporate commercially safe Generative AI and Machine Learning functionality into a wide range of Adobe enterprise solutions.”

Will Majeski
Senior Director, Deputy General Counsel
Yieldstreet

“In an era where legal expertise must be seamlessly integrated with business acumen, Will exemplifies what it means to be a modern in-house counsel—strategic, pragmatic, and indispensable in driving the firm’s success.”

“What truly distinguishes Will is his comprehensive understanding of all elements of the business—from fund structuring to both debt and equity transactions deals to corporate M&A.”

“Will Majeski is a rising star in the in-house legal world, combining deep technical expertise with business acumen, efficiency, and an unrelenting work ethic.”

The Legal Team of the Year Award honors a pioneering legal team, whether small or large, that has achieved extraordinary outcomes within our unique U.S. In-house community. The award goes beyond recognizing large transactions or litigation, highlighting the unique challenges and successes faced by U.S. legal departments.

Boston Consulting Group Legal Team

“The past 18 months have been a transformative period for the Legal Team, defined by its strategic focus on the adoption of cutting-edge AI and technology, the scaling of knowledge and collaboration across its global operations, and the targeted recruitment of specialized expertise.”

“The Legal Team’s strategic use of AI and technology was at the forefront of this transformation…By empowering internal teams to navigate AI-related challenges confidently, the Legal Team has also enabled BCG to adopt cutting-edge technologies responsibly and at scale.”

Kyndryl Legal Team

“The Kyndryl Legal Team embodies the company’s mission and values, collectively known as “The Kyndryl Way.” This ethos emphasizes empathy for diverse perspectives, continuous innovation, and an unwavering commitment to collective success. With over 400 professionals distributed across 63 countries, many working remotely, the Legal Team has successfully bridged geographical distances and fostered a strong culture and relationships among its members.”

Legal Department of The World Bank

“The World Bank’s Legal Department provides legal services required by the World Bank and plays an active role in all the World Bank’s activities.”

“The Legal Team helps to ensure that all World Bank’s activities comply with the Institution’s Articles of Agreement, policies and procedures. Organizationally, the Legal Department includes geographically-based regional Operational Practice Groups devoted to the legal and policy aspects of the World Bank’s lending operations, and Corporate Practice Groups, which provide advice on corporate finance, administrative and institutional matters and risk management for the World Bank.”