Niharika Sachdeva 2025 Atlas Award 

Congratulations to Niharika Sachdeva, Associate at Keker, Van Nest & Peters for receiving an Atlas Award upon the completion of the 2025 Pathfinders Program under LCLD. An organization who hosts more than 400 corporate chief legal officers and law firm managing partners, LCLD is “committed to creating an environment where all talent can thrive.” Sachdeva was in the 14% of this cohort to earn this award showcasing her dedication to the program.  

Brian Wheeler, a Leader to Watch

Wheeler, a partner at Foley & Lardner, has been named among the 2025/2026 Top Leaders to Watch by the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) Silicon Valley. This curated list recognizes individuals “who are leading innovation and growth, shaping the future of Silicon Valley.” Wheeler has years as a strategic advisor and provides legal and business guidance to clients across a multitude of industries that have solidified his spot on this list. 

Sarah Hoffman Promoted to Counsel

Sarah Hoffman, Associate at Venable and former Barristers Club President, has recently been promoted to the role of Counsel within the firm.  She has represented clients regarding environmental and land use matters and holds extensive experience working with California Environmental Quality Act, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act, and California’s Housing Accountability Act. Congratulations, Sarah!  

Orrick’s Erin Connell to the College of Labor & Employment Lawyers

The College of Labor & Employment Lawyers has chosen Erin M. Connell as a Fellow. As partner and co-chair of Orrick’s Equal Employment Opportunity Compliance Group and Pay Equity Task Force, this recognition highlights her leadership and extensive knowledge of employment law. In the Orrick announcement, they describe Erin as “a trusted advisor”, on the nation’s leading employers in emerging areas of law.  

Mariah Cooks, Incoming President of the Charles Houston Bar Association

Congratulations to Mariah Cooks, Senior Associate of Murphy, Pearson, Bradley & Feeney, for being installed as the next President of the Charles Houston Bar Association. Named after Charles Hamilton Houston, legendary civil rights practitioner, CHBA “continues his legacy by working to address the unique challenges facing the African American community.” We look forward to seeing how Mariah’s passion and purpose help her succeed as president.