In Their Own Words: Minority Partners On Reaching The Top

Partner Kelly-Ann Cartwright, chair of Holland & Knight's Directors Committee, shared her unique experience moving up the partnership ladder as a minority attorney in Law360's Diversity Snapshot.

Having worked at the firm for more than 26 years, Ms. Cartwright detailed her rise from serving as a summer associate after graduating from the University of Florida's law school to being appointed as the Miami executive partner in 2007. She also discusses the various leadership roles she has held, including with Holland & Knight's recruiting and local compensations committees and Women's Initiative.

Ms. Cartwright also shared her view on attaining talent and promoting inclusion in the legal industry. "Law firms need to take a cue from corporations trying to encourage diversity in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, sectors and model their outreach efforts in a similar manner," she told Law360. "We have to go into the schools. We have to inform young people that a career in law would be a good career, that it will be a rewarding career both personally and financially."

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