At Ms. JD, we work to create a world in which every woman lawyer can have the career that fulfills her dreams and enriches the profession in a way that benefits all of us. That vision came to life on April 23 in San Francisco, at our annual Limitless Gala and Awards. The event, which coincided with Ms. JD’s 20th anniversary, celebrated honorees Desiree Ralls-Morrison (Executive Vice President, Global Chief Legal Officer at McDonald’s Corporation) Phuong Phillips (Chief Legal Officer at Aledade) and Sheraya Bernard (3L at Southern Illinois University Simmons Law School ) for their achievements. The ballroom was packed with dynamic guests, the speakers made inspiring remarks, and the program offered an opportunity to reflect on Ms. JD’s history and the people behind it. The event is always a special experience. This year in particular, it embodied so many of the things that have made this one of a kind organization essential to women at every stage of their careers for two decades and counting.
The Community
From aspiring attorneys to seasoned professionals, Ms. JD helps women in law find peers and mentors, friends and people who just get it, at every stage of their careers. Community is key to what we offer because we know that women in the legal profession thrive with a vibrant, supportive network that offers guidance and career-advancing connections. Community ensures that every woman feels heard and valued. That was apparent at the gala, as supporters of our mission and those who have benefitted from our programs — from law students to general counsels and judges — filled the ballroom. Introductions were made, advice dispensed, and information exchanged. “This is a reflection of the kind of community we are continuing to build: one that is ambitious, inclusive, generous, and deeply committed to the future of women in the legal profession,” Ms. JD President & CEO Danielle Allison said. There is no question that opportunities will arise and collaborations will form from the seeds that were planted. Every woman in attendance left reassured that whatever her professional journey brings, she is not alone.
The Wisdom
Ms. JD’s programs are rooted in the lived experiences of women navigating the legal profession. Whether they focus on tackling law school’s early challenges or breaking through to leadership, our offerings help women navigate complexity, overcome systemic barriers, and lead with confidence. The honorees at the gala beautifully carried on that tradition, using their remarks to connect authentic personal stories to lessons for those who hope to follow in their footsteps. These are just a few of the memorable ideas they shared:
"If I could leave you with one thing this evening, I would say: to those of you facing fear, grief, imposter syndrome, or burnout—know that this is temporary,” said Sheraya Bernard. Greatness lives on the other side of it, whatever it is, and you do not have to get there alone. " — Sheraya Bernard.
"My parents taught me that education is the foundation, but kindness and resilience will carry you far. If I may leave you with this one thought: a small act of kindness may seem trivial to you, but know that it can change the life of another person. And many acts of kindness can change the world." — Phuong Phillips.
"To me, this is the embodiment of the Limitless Leadership. It's about using our influence responsibly, sponsoring emerging talent early, challenging the bias that exists when it appears, and setting the expectation that integrity and empathy are not optional." - Desiree Ralls-Morrison.
The Leadership
From its inception, Ms. JD has been led by people who understand firsthand why the organization’s work is so essential. “We would not be here today if not for the vision and bravery of Elizabeth Pederson, who founded Ms. JD when she was a law student. Not yet an attorney herself, she committed herself to making a difference for her peers and those that came after her. We can’t thank her and the founding board members enough,” Ruby Garrett, the Chair of Ms. JD’s Board of Directors, said in her remarks. Ms. JD was honored that Jessie Kornberg (Ms. JD’s first Executive Director), Katie Larkin-Wong (former Board Chair), and former board members Diana Stern and Anna Gressel were present. Their leadership, vision, and dedication shape the Ms. JD we know today.
Garrett presented an award to Allison to commemorate her ten years of service to the organization, saying "Danielle has given so much of herself to this mission because she believes deeply in what is possible when women are supported, connected, and empowered to lead. And for so many in this community, her impact has been personal. She makes people feel seen, valued, and capable of far more than they imagined."
The Steadfast Supporters
Ms JD has always been fueled by supporters who understand that when women rise, so does the entire legal profession. The presence at the gala of the partners and friends who consistently rally around Ms. JD was a reminder of how essential this support is. “None of this would be possible without our sponsors and Platinum sponsors, Gibson & Dunn, Hueston Hennigan, Jones Day, and Skadden,” said Allison, thanking them for their support of our work at a critical moment. “None of this happens by accident,” she added. “It happens because of the extraordinary people who believe in this mission and help bring it to life.”
The Joy
While the practice of law has well-known challenges, there are so many rewards from overcoming them, doing meaningful work, achieving our goals, and just taking a moment to enjoy and appreciate each other along the way.
Programs like LaddHer Up, Determined to Rise, our Leadership Academy initiatives, scholarships, mentorship, and community-building efforts are changing the profession for the better and will not stop until every woman lawyer is supported, elevated, and equipped to lead. Just as importantly, they are fun. They offer moments of levity, and they leave participants feeling good about themselves and their place in the profession. The smiles on the face of our guest were evidence that the gala did the same.
While the celebration is over, Ms. JD’s work continues. And we will do it with renewed energy from an event that truly reflects everything we are.
