Awards
We are proud to recognize the individuals and achievements that advance diversity, inclusion, and belonging at Blank Rome and throughout the legal profession.
Internal Awards
Each year, Blank Rome pauses to celebrate two individuals whose leadership reminds us of what inclusion looks like in practice. Established in 2013, the Honorable Nathaniel R. Jones Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Award recognizes a firm member who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in advancing DI & B. The Bonnie Glantz Fatell Women’ s Advocacy Leadership Award, presented by our BR Women affinity group, honors a colleague whose efforts have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the advancement of women’ s leadership at the firm and in the broader community. Together, these awards carry forward the legacies of two extraordinary individuals whose values and leadership continue to shape Blank Rome’ s culture.
The 2025 Honorable Nathaniel R. Jones Diversity and Inclusion Award
Recipient: James(“ Jim”) D. Kelly, Partner; Co-Chair of the Washington, D. C., office; Co-Chair of Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee
Jim Kelly embodies the values of the Honorable Nathaniel R. Jones Award in every facet of his leadership. He consistently demonstrates what it means to lead inclusively— with empathy, candor, and purpose. Jim has long championed the view that diversity, inclusion, and belonging are not ancillary commitments, but essential to how we serve our clients and support one another. As co-chair of the firm’ s Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee, his influence is evident in the culture he helps shape, the opportunities he advances, and the example he sets as a trusted ally who listens, amplifies, and acts. This recognition honors a leadership journey grounded in empathy, driven by action, and defined by steadfast allyship.
External Awards
Bonnie Glantz Fatell 2025 Women’ s Advocacy and Leadership Award
Recipient: Ashley M. Silberfeld, Partner
Ashley Silberfeld embodies the advocacy, leadership, and generosity of spirit at the heart of the Bonnie Glantz Fatell Women’ s Advocacy Leadership Award. Widely regarded as a trusted mentor, she is known for her steady presence, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering commitment to supporting others. Ashley leads with empathy and integrity, consistently championing her colleagues and amplifying their voices. Beyond her outstanding work as an attorney, her impact is felt in the authentic way she shows up for colleagues, clients, and the broader community— creating environments where women feel seen, supported, and empowered to lead. Through her mentorship, advocacy, and tireless dedication to opening doors for others, Ashley has played a vital role in fostering a culture where women can thrive and succeed.
• Jeanne M. Grasso, Brooke T. Iley, and Samantha Wallack Recognized in Corporate Counsel’ s 2025 Women, Influence & Power in Law Awards. Read More >
• Sonia Kaur Bain Named 2025 WX Woman of the Year. Read More >
• Amy Joseph Coles Named Woman of Influence by Pittsburgh Business Times. Read More >
• Blank Rome Earns Perfect Score in 2026 Corporate Equality Index. Read More >
The BRoader Impact- 2026 Annual Report 15