Akerman Recognized for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Performance
MCCA Diversity Scorecard ranks Akerman Among Top 20 Large Law Firms in group 5 (more than 501 lawyers) for 2021
Top 100 U.S. law firm Akerman LLP has been ranked among the most diverse large law firms in the country by the Minority Corporate Counsel Association, the premier national group of in-house counsel from diverse backgrounds.
The MCCA released its Diversity Scorecard, which it calls “a ranking and scoring system designed to empower law firms with the data and analysis they need to develop a more effective diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy.” Akerman was one of twenty firms of more than 500 attorneys named to the list of top achievers in DEI.
MCCA said the survey, reviewed and edited by outside experts, assesses law firms by demographics, recruitment, retention/attrition, and promotion for women and diverse groups, particularly those from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds.
“Akerman has long regarded diversity and inclusion, throughout our ranks, as core to our mission in building a national firm that reflects the communities in which we live and work,” said Scott Meyers, Akerman Chairman and CEO. “We are thrilled that our efforts have been recognized by MCCA, and will continue our work in fostering an inclusive environment that empowers all our people,” he added.
“We are grateful for the MCCA’s recognition of our DEI efforts, and we are firmly committed to continuing this journey,” said Pedro Freyre, chair of the firm’s International Practice and of the firm’s Equality and Inclusion Committee.
“Akerman strives to be a welcoming home and great place to practice for all its attorneys and professionals,” said LaKeisha Marsh, chair of Akerman’s Government Affairs and Public Policy Practice and Higher Education and Collegiate Athletics Practice, as well as co-chair of the firm’s Women’s Initiative Network. “We are all extremely pleased to have our efforts and our persistence recognized by MCCA.”
Kasey Folk Dunlap, a partner in the Litigation Practice Group and co-chair of the Women’s Initiative Network, called the honor “a proud day for the firm’s women and lawyers of diverse backgrounds. I’m honored to be part of this important campaign for a more diverse and inclusive legal environment.”
MCCA said the Scorecard comes in response to years of requests from general counsel for a transparent industry benchmark to assess DEI metrics, develop actionable policies, and ultimately, drive competitive advantage. It relies on 14 years of data from the MCCA’s annual Law Firm Diversity Survey and was developed in active consultation with many leading general counsels and law firms.
About Akerman
Akerman LLP is a top 100 U.S. law firm recognized among the most forward-thinking firms in the industry by Financial Times. Its more than 700 lawyers and business professionals collaborate with the world’s most successful enterprises and entrepreneurs to navigate change, seize opportunities, and help drive innovation and growth.
