Courtney Steelman, 31

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Associate, Husch Blackwell, Kansas City

Practice Area: Labor and employment

Law School: University of Missouri (J.D. & LL.M.)

“Even though the past year and a half has been very challenging for a lot of reasons, I am thankful for some of the simplicity that it has brought back into my life,” says Courtney Steelman. “Now more than ever, I look forward to hugging my grandma. Sitting on the driveway with neighbors. Staying home to slow down and just enjoy the sometimes overlooked moments of life.”

Steelman also appreciates the opportunities she has had to reflect on some of her favorite moments as an attorney. These center on the amazing people who have come into her life during her career. Colleagues who have become friends. Mentors who have become trusted guides. Professors who opened her eyes and inspired her daily.

Her interest in the legal profession began with her advocacy and student government roles in high school and college. Her career began in the Missouri Senate and continues today with her law practice.

She advises young attorneys to stay open to learning and growth. “Ask questions,” Steelman says. “Listen. Challenge yourself. Never assume you know every answer. Each and every day, you will learn something new.”

What is your biggest accomplishment this year?

Because of the pandemic, my practice transformed into primarily COVID advising and policy drafting. I was able to shift quickly in a new area of the law while advising clients and colleagues in the new, ever-changing environment. All this took place working from the corner of a spare bedroom with my pup at my feet.

If you hadn’t become a lawyer, what profession would you have chosen?

Either a “Saturday Night Live” cast member or a news anchor. Maybe a SNL cast member playing a news anchor!