Diversity is one of Stoel Rives' values and a key element of our firm's strategic vision. In today's increasingly mobile, multicultural world, many of our clients recognize that diversity and inclusion are not only beneficial social values, but also vital ingredients in business innovation and success.
Diverse viewpoints and creative thinking are essential in developing innovative, workable solutions in every aspect of life. For a multifaceted law firm such as Stoel Rives, diversity within our firm is critical to the quality of our legal work, our client service, and the professional development of our attorneys and staff.
To us, diversity means differing life experiences, cultures and backgrounds, as well as gender, race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, age or any other status protected by applicable nondiscrimination laws.
Our diversity goals are
- To successfully recruit, develop, and retain attorneys and staff of diverse backgrounds and characteristics.
- To foster an inclusive professional environment that respects and values differences among our attorneys and staff and supports professional development and advancement for all.
Our firm's commitment to diversity goes beyond our longstanding nondiscrimination policy. Stoel Rives is committed to and involved in promoting diversity in our firm and our communities. Our Diversity and Inclusion Committee leads this effort, and our Executive Committee, Firm Managing Partner, Director of Business Development, Sr. Professional Development and Diversity Manager, and practice group leaders also have leadership roles in our diversity initiatives.
Through affinity groups, mentoring, educational programs, sponsorships, outreach efforts, and community service, Stoel Rives strives to create opportunities for each unique voice in our culture to be heard.
We are making significant strides in our strategic recruiting of diverse candidates. In 2012, 22% of our hires and summer associates were ethnic minorities or LGBT, and 44% were women, including five women of color.
Diversity has always been an important value for the firm and continues to be a key element of our strategic vision. For our multifaceted legal practice, diversity within the firm is critical to the quality of legal work and client service we provide.
Working together, we look forward to continuing to increase our diversity and inclusion in the years to come.