HBS Women’s Forum: “Running in Heels”

Sparkling evening at St. Regis as women leaders gather for ‘Running in Heels’

More than 60 of the region’s top political, legal and business women gathered Tuesday at the St. Regis Atlanta to share “Aha” moments, taste fine wines, and slay champagne bottles just as easily as they have slayed challenges throughout their careers.

The occasion was “Running in Heels,” an initiative of the Women’s Forum at Hall Booth Smith P.C. (HBS).

Guests enjoyed an elegant evening of conversation, women-influenced spirits and fine wines from women-owned vineyards, and a champagne sabering ritual conducted by the sommelier of the St. Regis.

Adding even more sparkle to the night was a discussion by a distinguished panel that included Judge Sara L. Doyle of the Georgia Court of Appeals; Georgia General Assembly Rep. Lynne Riley (House District 50, Johns Creek); and Val Rahmani, CEO of computer security company Damballa and former general manager of IBM’s ISS division.

Such questions as “What is your motivation to keep going?” “Who and what inspires you?” and “What is behind Mona Lisa’s Smile?” made for lively and thought-provoking dialogue.

Moderator Elizabeth Wharton, an attorney with HBS, marshaled her expertise in all three of the panelists’ professions to foster a meaningful discussion.
Wharton is former legislative counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee with the Georgia General Assembly, and previously was in-house counsel for an information technology security company.

Tastings included: Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label NV Champagne, 2009 Antica Chardonnay, 2005 Chappellet Merlot, and 2009 Lapostolle Cabernet Sauvignon.

The HBS Women’s Forum was created to foster opportunities for meaningful interaction and professional growth for our women attorneys and to support women in the profession of law, within our community.

Creating a place where women lawyers are given the opportunity to become successful partners and leaders is a priority at HBS. Leadership of women within the firm plays a substantial role in our success. From senior partners to key management positions, HBS continuously seeks opportunities for professional and personal growth for our female employees. Our internal Women’s Forum helps accomplish this goal.

The HBS Women’s Forum holds quarterly seminars and events designed with teambuilding, networking and professional growth opportunities for our female attorneys and clients.