American Express’ Legal Department and its Diversity Council recently honored Orrick with their inaugural law firm diversity and inclusion award. The award recognizes the firm’s dedication to diversity in its staffing of American Express matters, its overall diversity program and the diversity improvements made by Orrick over a three-year period.
“At American Express, diversity is ingrained in our culture. Orrick shares our commitment to diversity, and we’re pleased to honor them for their progress in creating a more inclusive law firm,” said Gianni Dimos, Chair of American Express’ Outside Counsel Diversity Subcommittee.
In 2016, American Express, a signatory to the American Bar Association’s Resolution 113 diversity initiative, began surveying its top law firms to ensure that they hold similar diversity and inclusion values and were making efforts to that end. American Express selected Orrick among its top 12 legal providers for its efforts initially, and has now identified Orrick as the top firm for diversity among this group following a thorough review process.
“Diversity and inclusion has always been a top priority at American Express, and through a host of initiatives, including awards such as this, they consistently challenge law firms to improve their diversity goals and objectives. We’re honored to receive this award from them,” said
Lorraine McGowen, Co-Chair of Orrick’s Diversity & Inclusion Initiative.
Glynna Christian, an Orrick partner who works closely with American Express, noted at a virtual event celebrating the award, "One of the many reasons I’ve loved working with American Express is that D&I has always been a priority for them and is consistent with the company’s commitment to its Blue Box values. I couldn’t be more proud than to be at a firm whose culture and values align with theirs and to be part of this amazing team."