Modern Counsel

Nacente Seabury's journey toward becoming a fierce advocate for equality and justice began long before she entered law school. In 2014, during the hot, humid summer in Kansas City, Seabury was studying for the bar exam when the tragic killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson ignited protests across the region. Witnessing the aftermath, Seabury felt compelled to act. She joined forces with two other women to organize a peaceful rally in Kansas City, which attracted over a thousand attendees. This moment solidified her passion for advocating for those without a voice. From an early age, Seabury’s ability to argue her case—whether it was about juice over water before she turned four—shaped her commitment to law and justice. Raised in Sedalia, Missouri, she is driven to help her community and fight for equality. Learn more about how Seabury’s experiences and values shape her work today: https://lnkd.in/eFKGHHWx #Equality #Justice #Advocacy #LegalLeadership #ModernCounsel

Ashleigh Landis’s career journey took an unexpected turn when a Warner Bros. Studio tour in Los Angeles sparked her interest in the entertainment industry. Despite initially pursuing a career as a nutritionist and personal trainer, Landis later enrolled in law school and interned at Warner Bros. litigation department. This led her to a successful legal career at Warner Bros. Discovery, where she now brings her passion for entertainment and law to a dynamic legal team. Her story highlights the value of following your instincts and embracing new career opportunities. Learn how Landis’s unique path led her to Warner Bros. Discovery and shaped her career in entertainment law: https://lnkd.in/e-GHge-V #EntertainmentLaw #WarnerBrosDiscovery #LegalCareer #ModernCounsel #CareerJourney

Judi Otteson thrives on the challenge of building legal departments from the ground up, particularly in high-growth industries. With over two decades of experience, Otteson has guided several companies through their IPO journeys, most recently leading the legal function at Gatik AI Inc. As the GC for the autonomous vehicle company, she is building a legal team that will support its ambitious goals in a rapidly evolving tech space. Otteson believes in a compassionate, approachable legal function that fosters a culture of transparency and accountability. Discover more about Otteson’s approach to developing legal teams and her passion for helping startups succeed: https://lnkd.in/ef3K6CRK #TechLaw #Startups #LegalLeadership #IPO #ModernCounsel

2024 has been a year of remarkable stories, incredible leaders, and powerful insights. Modern Counsel is proud to share a Look Back video celebrating the moments that defined the year. From inspiring legal experts to groundbreaking industry shifts, we’ve captured the highlights that made 2024 unforgettable. Take a moment to relive the journey with us and discover how these stories are shaping the future of law and leadership. Watch the full video now! Don't miss out on the most influential minds of the legal industry ⚖️ https://lnkd.in/erFPfc5 #LegalLeadership #ModernCounsel #2024Highlights #Lawyers #Inspiration #LegalIndustry

Elif Kimyacioglu’s decision to transition from a decade-long career at Latham & Watkins to an in-house legal role at Prime Residential was not taken lightly. She was drawn to the opportunity to build a legal team from scratch, something she had always wanted to do. At Prime Residential, Kimyacioglu played a key role in developing a strong legal function to support the company's rapid growth during a pivotal time. Her efforts have helped the company expand its portfolio and improve its operational structure. Learn more about how Kimyacioglu’s vision and leadership transformed the legal team at Prime Residential: https://lnkd.in/ej6FKUnd #LegalLeadership #InHouseCounsel #PrimeResidential #CareerTransition #ModernCounsel

Baron T. Oursler, SVP, General Counsel, and Secretary at FleetPride, faced a unique set of challenges when he was interviewed by Modern Counsel. At the time, his wife was on bed rest as she awaited the premature arrival of their twins. Despite these personal milestones, Oursler's commitment to his work remained steadfast. His leadership at FleetPride has helped the company navigate the complexities of the transportation industry while managing a legal department that supports its growth and innovation. Learn more about Oursler’s dedication to balancing his personal and professional life while driving FleetPride's success: https://lnkd.in/eHaaqGsU #Leadership #InHouseCounsel #FleetPride #ModernCounsel #WorkLifeBalance

"For Bethune-Cookman? Without question." Valencia Gallon-Stubbs brings a Marvel-worthy level of commitment to her role as general counsel for Bethune-Cookman University. A Daytona Beach native and proud advocate for this historically Black university, she is dedicated to ensuring its legacy for generations to come. “Without question, I give my best to serve this institution prudently yet aggressively,” says Gallon-Stubbs. “That way, we continue to maintain our resources for future generations so that this university, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary, outlives us all.” Learn more about her inspiring journey and unwavering dedication to her alma mater and hometown: https://lnkd.in/eiTr-hqv #HigherEducation #LegalLeadership #BethuneCookman #HBCUPride #ModernCounsel

When Polly Klane, Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel, joined Citizens in 2022, she knew that the growth and innovative mindset was the culture she wanted to be a part of. Polly talks with Modern Counsel magazine about her career journey and the role her team plays as we continue pushing boundaries to shape the future of the financial services industry. I agree, the collaborative culture makes being a #CitizensColleague so special. 💚 Check out this story about Polly’s journey to learn more: https://spr.ly/6043QsbJJ

TikTok’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary—315 million downloads in three months and a surge in US unique visitors during the early days of the pandemic. This growth caught the attention of Catherine Razzano, an experienced in-house lawyer and compliance expert, who saw TikTok as an opportunity to make a real impact in the tech industry. Now, as Head of Legal Compliance for TikTok, Razzano is building a world-class compliance team to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a high-growth company on the path to going public. From ensuring global antibribery standards to addressing privacy concerns, she’s helping shape TikTok’s future. Discover more about her journey and the critical role she plays in TikTok’s success: https://lnkd.in/dsKPBBRZ #LegalLeadership #TechCompliance #ModernCounsel #LeadershipInTech

Casey’s General Stores is a Midwest icon with over 2,900 locations across America’s heartland. Erika Bauer, Senior Legal Counsel since 2022, embodies the collaborative and welcoming culture Casey’s has cultivated since its founding in 1968. For Bauer, joining Casey’s wasn’t just about her first in-house role—it was about finding a workplace that lived its values. She sought an environment where people truly connect, engage, and take pride in their team. Now, she’s channeling her passion and Midwestern charm to enhance the culture for Casey’s thousands of team members nationwide. Learn more about her journey and impact at Casey’s: https://hubs.la/Q02-9vPP0 #LeadershipJourney #InHouseCounsel #CorporateCulture #ModernCounsel