Racial Justice and Equity: A Year of Purposeful Investment

23 | RACIAL JUSTICE AND EQUITY RACIAL JUSTICE AND EQUITY | 24 STAFF MENTORING CIRCLE PILOT PROGRAM Launched in 2021 to increase the retention and advancement of Black staff into Firm Leadership roles, the pilot circle featured Black staff members at supervisory levels with two senior leader mentors. The monthly sessions include internally and externally facilitated discussions on a range of topics, including feedback and evaluations, authentic leadership and wellness. The Black Associate/Counsel Advisory Board developed Jumpstart, a new mentoring effort for Black associates joining the Firm. U.S. Black associates who joined either as first-year or lateral associates since Summer 2021 have been matched with Black partner and associate mentors to help navigate the transition to the Firm. The mentors received a “check-in checklist” for guidance. Prior to New Associate Orientation 2021, the incoming Black associates were convened for a virtual Jumpstart Pre-Orientation, which included mini-panels and breakout discussions on how to make a positive first impression and how to select practice groups. My Jumpstart mentors helped me to feel part of the community at Weil despite starting remotely. I appreciate the ability to ask my Jumpstart mentors for advice on things big and small. 54% of managers/supervisors identify as BIPOC 57% of U.S. staff identify as BIPOC 61% of 2021 staff promotions identify as BIPOC of senior managers identify as BIPOC 30% BLACK STAFF SUPERVISORS/MANAGERS 9.4% 12.2% 2020 2022

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