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Articles 1 result
Articles
11.27.2023
In the Face of Affirmative Action: Persisting With Law Firm Diversity Efforts
The Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, 600 U.S. 181 (2023) held that affirmative action programs are unconstitutional in private college admissions. The decision left businesses that are committed to diversity initiatives worried about what it would mean for their DEI programs. However, the decision does not invalidate private employment diversity efforts. Shelley Smith, Archer’s Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer and Partner in the firm’s Business Litigation and Labor and Employment Groups, recently authored The Legal article, “In the Face of Affirmative Action: Persisting with Law Firm Diversity Efforts,” which reviews the Supreme court decision. In the article, Shelley discusses the legal field being among the least diverse professions and how law firms can continue working towards a more diverse and inclusive industry - despite the current attacks against affirmative action. To read the article, click here.
In the News 2 results
In the News
02.20.2024
The American Lawyer article, “The Sweet Spot Between Microaggressions and Empty Words: Threading the Needle on Associate Feedback,” includes comments from Shelley Smith, Archer’s Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. With associate feedback recently coming under scrutiny, the article discusses law firms and their partners’ possible struggle to deliver appropriate guidance to associates while keeping diversity, equity and inclusion considerations in mind. While partners risk inadvertently incorporating microaggressions into feedback, not offering feedback to associates is another form of discrimination.
In the News
12.11.23
Shelley Smith Quoted in Law.com Article, "How Should Midsize Firms Navigate DEI Landmines"
Shelley R. Smith, Archer's Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, was interviewed for the Law.com article, "How Should Midsize Firms Navigate DEI Landmines?" Shelley, a partner in the firm's Labor & Employment Group, discussed how midsize firms can move forward with DEI programming without risking litigation or other issues related to recent DEI pushback. The article offers practical advice on how midsize firms can ensure they're compliant with the law and able to continue the efforts they started before as much resistance had occurred.
Press Releases 10 results
Press Releases
10.31.2022
Archer Files Amicus Curiae Brief for Pro Bono Client Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Press Releases
04.17.2022
Shelley Smith Named 2022 Distinguished Advocate for Children
Archer partner Shelley R. Smith has been named a 2022 Distinguished Advocate for Children honoree by the Support Center for Child Advocates for her efforts to further the organization’s mission. The Support Center for Child Advocates supports victims of child abuse and neglect with the goal of securing safety, justice, well-being, and a permanent, nurturing environment for every child.
Speaking Engagements & Seminars 4 results
Speaking Engagements & Seminars
04.18.2023
Shelley R. Smith, Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer and a Partner in the firm’s Business Litigation and Labor and Employment Groups, will serve as Moderator on the panel "Getting Real in Our New Reality" at the New Jersey Business & Industry Association Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit, "Elephants in Shifting Sands: The Changing Reality of DE&I".
Speaking Engagements & Seminars
06.16.2022
Shelley Smith to be a Panelist at CCSNJ Diversity & Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Forum
When: Thursday, June 16, 2022
Speaking Engagements & Seminars
07.12.2021
When: Monday, July 12th, 2021 | Eastern: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM