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Lacey Rochester
Baker Donelson | New Orleans, LA
Position (job title and firm): Associate at Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
Most interesting matter you've worked on? I would have to say my first big debtor case in which we successfully reorganized several debtors in possession engaged in the oil and gas industry and holding over $60 million in debt. The runner up involves a matter where we sued the husband of a woman on a popular reality television show that may or may not have "Real Housewives" in the title. The celebrity factor made it pretty memorable to me.
Role in IWIRC? I currently serve as Events Chair for the New Orleans Chapter of IWIRC.
Favorite IWIRC event you've attended? Hands down the 2019 Leadership Conference in New Orleans. I will never forget the feeling of watching my fellow attendees -- with their freshly painted faces and extravagant self-made fascinators-- sashaying down Bourbon Street in a Second Line to the sound of a brass band. Everything about that day was perfect.
What is one skill/hobby/interest most people may not know about you? I am obsessively into politics and political strategy. If anyone wants to grab a glass of wine and muse over the current political situation (no matter which side of the aisle you prefer) come and find me.
Who is your role model? Within the insolvency field I would have to say Jan Hayden. Over the past seven years, Jan has functioned as both a mentor and an inspiration. She has fine-tuned my bankruptcy knowledge and sense of professionalism while encouraging me to get involved and stay active within my community. Watching Jan in action (both in and out of the courtroom) has instilled in me what it takes to be leader in my field. Her selflessness has changed the way I look at the world and I am all the better for it. I don't think I can ever repay her for all she has done, but I will certainly pay it forward. Outside of work, my answer would be Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Greta Thunberg, and Malala Yousafzai. I am motivated by women who display a firmness of mind and spirit and an unyielding courage in the face of hardship of danger - otherwise known as "grit."
What are you most looking forward to in DC? First and foremost, networking and catching up with friends. However, after that it's the museums. A bit of a nerd at heart, I am definitely that person who immerses themselves to the point of refusing to leave before reading everything in sight on each exhibit!