Diversity & Inclusion | Sterne Kessler

At Sterne Kessler, we foster an inclusive, dynamic, and vibrant workplace that embraces diversity and welcomes everyone.

With over 400 dedicated professionals, including attorneys and staff, we are committed to delivering exceptional service to our clients and nurturing a supportive and inclusive work environment for all.

Here, diversity is about understanding one another and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing and celebrating differences. Our work as intellectual property professionals reflects the broad array of ideas and experiences that characterize our social, cultural and intellectual world. We encourage everyone at the firm to identify, develop, and leverage their unique strengths.

In 2024, Law360 ranked Sterne Kessler in the top 15 firms for overall diversity and among the top four firms for minority representation among equity partners in the “101 to 250 attorneys” size category.

Diversity Lab’s Midsize Mansfield Rule Certification

Sterne Kessler earned the Midsized Mansfield Certification for 2023-24 and has participated in the program since 2021. We are among more than 360 firms that have committed to implementing inclusive talent practices that boost diversity in leadership through Mansfield’s science and data-driven processes. This accomplishment underscores the firm’s commitment to promoting an inclusive and equitable workplace. As stated by Diversity Lab, “The overall goal of the Midsize Mansfield Rule is to increase the representation of diverse lawyers in leadership by broadening the pool of women, LGBTQ+ lawyers, lawyers with disabilities, and/or racial/ethnic minority lawyers who are considered for entry-level and lateral attorney job openings, leadership opportunities, equity partner promotions, and opportunities to connect with clients.”

Diversity & Inclusion Committee

Our firm’s diversity and inclusion committee is charged with building and furthering Sterne Kessler’s vision of diversity, equity and inclusion. The committee is comprised of employees from every sector of the firm, including staff, attorneys of all levels, our managing director, and one of our founding directors. The committee supports several initiatives that foster diversity and inclusion, including, but not limited to: specific recruiting efforts; mentoring programs for career development and advancement; and affinity groups. The committee also sponsors a series of internal programs, such as celebrating National Diversity Week and hosting guest speakers for interactive learning sessions.

Programs & Sponsorships

Internal diversity programs include INSPIRED – by the women of Sterne Kessler, a women’s affinity group that hosts periodic roundtables and topical discussions. The firm also partners with and sponsors a number of organizations that promote diversity across our local, legal, and technical communities.

Among the bar associations and organizations in which we are active in membership, sponsorship and in-kind support are:

Focusing on the next generation of lawyers and IP professionals is also a part of our focus. The 1L Diversity Spring Internship is just one example of programs the firm has supported to offer students direct exposure to the practice of law, including hands-on experience working with our attorneys and professional staff.

How About You?

Interested in opportunities to join the firm and enjoy Sterne Kessler’s dynamic culture? Please visit our Careers page to learn about current job openings at the firm.

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