04/06/2024
As a Notre Dame Law grad, I’m honored to be named a Trailblazer as part of the law school’s celebrations. It’s a reminder of how much more work there is to do. And, it’s an opportunity to thank so many from Meridian, MS, Xavier University, New Prospect Baptist Church, and more who have made my journey possible.
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As we end Women's History Month, meet four ND Law alumnae who excel as lawyers, civic leaders, and champions for women in the legal profession.
Cynthia Hardy, ‘90 JD is the CEO & Founder of Pivot Global Partners, a global professional services firm that uplifts youth and aspiring leaders through mentoring and creates access to education and professional opportunities. A thought leader, lecturer, and youth mentor, Hardy was the recipient of the Social Equity and Community Impact Award at the 2024 DEI: Expanding Opportunity in Insurance Conference.
Carolyn Blessing, '04, '08 JD is a partner at Locke Lord in Chicago where she concentrates her practice in IP Pharmaceutical matters and Hatch-Waxman litigation. She is a member of the firm’s Women’s Initiative and has taken on a number of leadership roles in organizations dedicated to advancing women lawyers and their professional development. She was recently named a 2024 Notable Women in Law honoree by Crain’s Chicago Business.
Mary Killough, '91 JD, a lifelong advocate for seniors, was recently appointed as the next director of the Illinois Department on Aging. Killough currently serves as Vice President of Operations and Government Relations for AccentCare, a national in-home health service, personal care service, and hospice care provider. Killough has dedicated more than 30 years to serving older adults across Illinois.
Monica Patankar, '07 JD is a partner at Patankar Law P.C., where she practices real estate, tax, and family law, along with estate planning. Patankar has received a number of awards in recognition of her dedication to her community, and her civic and leadership activities. She was also the 2019 Miss Illinois for America and recently appeared in "Origin," a film by acclaimed Hollywood director, Ava DuVernay.
