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1. Reflecting on Women’s History Month, how have you seen the role of women in law evolve during your career?

Theresa Nadachowski: Years ago, the culture of life was more geared to women being “stay-at-home mothers” and  “homemakers”.  They were expected to prioritize family and maintain the household, limiting them from furthering their education, seeking employment and also the ability to participate in public life.

Women have more opportunities to work full-time with more support at home with spouses sharing responsibilities and family assisting with childcare responsibilities, etc. Women are given the opportunity to make more choices today than years ago, which is more accepted and encouraged in society today.  Women today seek more advancement in their careers proving their ability to be equal.  Also, employers are supportive and taking actions to ensure advancement of women with their careers.  Companies now offer paternity leave.  This, in turn, allows women to balance life at work and home.  As you now see, men are taking more responsibility in the home life, and are enjoying spending more time with their families as well.

Working for MacElree Harvey for numerous years, I have had the pleasure of seeing Legal Assistants and Paralegals work full time, attend Law School, along with have a family at home, achieve getting their law degree, become attorneys, and some even opened their own Law Firm. 

Although life has changed a lot for women in the work field, the areas that I believe still require attention and improvement are some employers need more mentoring for women, be conscious of workplace discrimination and inequalities, increase awareness in changing the perception of gender roles, allow women to explore diverse opportunities and pursue their dreams, and be conscious of the gender pay gap by adjusting salaries to ensure women are compensated fairly.  Also, there is a need to provide women with necessary resources and access to education.

Diane Shoemaker: I joined MacElree Harvey in 1987. From the very first day, I considered myself lucky to work for a firm that recognized and appreciated my knowledge of my position as a Legal Assistant.

Being a member of the MH family for 37 years, I have seen the firm grow into a wonderful place to work. Over the years there have been changes in leadership and structure and women have been incorporated into higher level positions, which has made a huge difference with the culture of the firm.

Being a woman, married with 3 children and 7 grandchildren, family is very important to me. I am grateful that MH understands and supports those values.  

2. Growing up, was there someone in your life that inspired you to become who you are today? Who was it and why?

Theresa Nadachowski: Growing up in Philadelphia years ago, what was then called the “secretarial field”, was a field that more women were persuaded or mentored by our parents and family to pursue.  It was also more accepted in society at that time.  My mother inspired me to move toward this field and follow in the footsteps of the women in our family.  Schools also offered specific classes regarding this field.  I studied secretarial studies at Cardinal Dougherty High School and Manor Junior College.  After college, I worked as a Judicial Secretary for the Honorable James C. Crumlish, Jr. until his retirement.  I then had an opportunity to work at a Law Firm in Center City, and eventually joined the MacElree Harvey team, where I have been working for the last twenty years.  At MacElree Harvey, my title changed to “Legal Assistant” as I believe the firm felt we were more than just a secretary.  Now we are moving towards being paraprofessionals.  I do enjoy all aspects of this field, especially helping clients through the emotional journey of life changing events, and am blessed working for MacElree Harvey, my “second family”. 

Another person who inspired me throughout the years is Michelle Foster, CEO of MacElree Harvey, whom I have known for the last twenty years.  We joined MacElree Harvey months apart, and shortly after meeting, we realized our paths have crossed before.   Michelle has supported, influenced, and mentored me throughout the years.   I am truly blessed to know and work with Michelle at MacElree Harvey.

Diane Shoemaker: My mother was my biggest influence.  She worked nights as an operating room nurse but was always there for my dad and the four of us girls.  She took care of all of us, the house, etc. proving that a woman can work outside of the home as well as inside the home.   She is the reason I strive to do the best for my family both at home and at work. My mother taught us to treat others and you would want to be treated and I apply that to both my personal family and work family.

3. What female public figure, past or present, inspires you and why?

Diane Shoemaker: While not a “public” figure on a large scale, but rather a public figure within the firm, Michelle Foster as our CEO has inspired me. She is an amazing role model for all women.  She does a wonderful job for all of us here at MH and is a true advocate for the staff.  She has an open-door policy, and truly understands what all of us do on a daily basis. She is a caring and kind-hearted person, and you feel comfortable talking to her about anything and everything.

4. What is one thing others can do to empower the women in their lives?

Theresa Nadachowski: I believe in supporting all women and encouraging women, whether it is a family member or other women I may come in contact with, which will empower them to seek new opportunities.

1. Describe your current and past roles at MacElree Harvey. 

I started with MacElree Harvey in 2018 as an office assistant.  Generally speaking, an office assistant’s responsibilities include ordering toner and placing service calls for the various copiers, replenish supplies and deliver mail and filings to the courthouse.  Since joining the firm, I have added more client facing duties to my responsibilities.  I cover the reception desk often, and have started witnessing in signings for the firm.  This past year I managed the North Star gift drive for the firm, which made me proud to support our community and make a difference in the lives of others.

2. How do you believe your unique perspective as a woman contributes to the overall success and diversity of MacElree Harvey.

Each day, I cover the reception desk while the receptionist is at lunch. Every now and then I have a conversation with either a client or a loved one of a client. On one particular occasion, a spouse waited in the waiting room while her significant other finalized his will. He did not have much longer to live. She was strong, but you could feel the sadness that was in her. We spoke about past employers (she was once a receptionist) and keeping in touch with “old” friends (she was having lunch with some “old” friends later in the week).  

Women by nature are nurturers and want to comfort.  We listen, show empathy and also offer sympathy.  Clients come to MacElree Harvey knowing that we care. It’s not just lip service. When I answer the phone and a client or potential client mentions a loved one has passed away, I always offer my condolences. People remember the little things and how you made them feel, especially during difficult times.

Having gone through some of the same circumstances that bring clients to our firm, I can relate to how clients are feeling.  In those situations, I knew what would have helped me so I try and treat people the way I wanted to be treated.

3. Growing up, was there someone in your life that inspired you to become who you are today?

Growing up, my mother was my biggest inspiration.  I grew up with both a mother and a father, but while my father’s job was always a 9-5 position, my mother took advantage of the different work shifts available in her place of employment. She would change shifts as we grew older, so that she could at least spend time with her three children before she had to go to work. By the time we were teenagers, my mother was working 1^st shift and did so until she retired.  She and my dad had goals in life and knew hard work and a strong work ethic would get those goals achieved. 

4. What progress on gender equality have you seen in your life and work?

The practice of law is predominantly a male dominated occupation, but more and more women are enrolling in law schools and passing the bar. Here at MH, I take pleasure in seeing the senior female attorneys mentoring the female associates and the female paralegals who are studying to be attorneys all while raising families.  You know someone else’s journey if you have already made the same walk.

5. What is one thing others can do to empower the woman in their lives?

Empower the women in our lives is to lift them up. Listen. Offer advice. Offer to watch children. Tell the woman in question “I have your back. What else can I do to lighten your load?” My eldest daughter is going to resume her goal of earning a nursing degree, while working and raising a child. I have encouraged her to continue to live at home so that we can help her.

1. Reflecting on Women’s History Month, how have you seen the role of women in legal administration evolve during your career, and what contributions do you believe women have made to the success of law firms and legal departments?  

Prior to joining MacElree Harvey in 2020, I worked for a firm in Philadelphia. I consider myself fortunate that the executives at both firms are people that I admire, respect and have learned and continue to learn from. Having now worked with both men and women in leadership positions in law firms, the benefits of having a female CEO are significant. Women bring an emotional intelligence aspect to the workplace that is highly effective. Being able to consider other people’s feelings, offering praise and gratitude, keeping commitments and encouraging learning and growth are just a few of the impacts Michelle Foster has brought to the firm. Encouraging open dialogue, active listening, and understanding as well as providing guidance and motivation to handle situations that may have initially been outside personal comfort level are just a few of the ways working with Michelle has inspired my own personal growth and for which I am grateful. 

2. Growing up, was there someone in your life that inspired you to become who you are today? Who was it and why?  

My parents, who always encouraged me to succeed in life. My parents are practical, and the values that I was raised on have influenced how I experience life at work as well. It is only upon reflection years later that I fully realized the ways in which I learned from my parents. They taught hard work, integrity and reliability by example. I can now appreciate “showing up is half the battle”, which is something my dad used to say. 

3. What advice do you have for women starting to develop their careers?

Take advantage of every learning opportunity, even if it pushes you out of your comfort zone. If someone is willing to teach you – they believe you are capable. Resist the urge to compare yourself to your peers, instead measure your individual growth to your past self. Distinguish yourself by working hard, being reliable and keeping your promises. Leadership will notice.

1. When you began your career, did you ever imagine you would have a leadership role in this profession/industry?  

While I may not have initially envisioned becoming a CEO of this law firm, I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have led me to this position. This is my twentieth year with MacElree Harvey, and many of us have worked together for a long time. I consider myself fortunate to enjoy the work that I do, the people that I work with and for an organization with values that I believe in.

2. What are the benefits to having women in leadership?   

Women in leadership promotes diversity of thought, enhances creativity and fosters a more inclusive workplace.  Women leaders often bring unique perspectives, skills and strengths to the workplace.  Generally speaking, women tend to be empathetic and emotionally intelligent which are great qualities in leadership.  Additionally, studies suggest that gender-diverse leadership teams can improve financial performance and overall effectiveness. For example, MacElree Harvey has seen its gross revenue over 5 years grow 45% and profits grew 39%.

3. How do you believe your unique perspective as a female CEO contributes to the overall success and diversity of MacElree Harvey?

My career at MacElree Harvey began in 2004 as a Staff Accountant.  I have served the firm in many roles including COO, CFO, CEO.  Rising through the ranks while raising a family and going to school at night has granted me the opportunity to see various perspectives at different levels. Having the background and longevity with the firm allows a unique approach to leadership and assists with the overall vision of the firm. Throughout the years we have been able to shape the culture into what it is today and we are proud to have won Best Places to Work 2018-2022 and Top Workplaces 2023.

As a law firm, we have demonstrated a commitment towards increasing women’s access to advancement through our culture and practices.  Below are just a few examples:

• Open door policy to promote on-going communication to address the needs of its employees.
• Offers health and wellness programs, including mindful meditation, chair yoga, and nutrition seminars.
• Compensation structure is based on a formula creating equal compensation opportunity for women and men.
• Measures performance based on results, not attendance.  Work schedule flexibility, including the opportunity for revenue generating roles to work from home to support work-life balance while meeting the needs of clients.
• Fosters and promotes women in leadership positions and advancement within the Firm. 
• Provides training and resources to support women’s professional development and the growth of their business and network, including continuing education and marketing.
• Encourages mentoring of attorneys to support their practice, development and job satisfaction.

4. What qualities make a great female leader?

Integrity: consistency in actions, honesty, and commitment to ethical behavior.  Empathy: understanding and considering the perspectives and feelings of others.  Vision: a clear vision and the ability to inspire others to work toward common goals.  Accountability: taking responsibility for actions and outcomes of decisions.  Strategic thinking: ability to think long-term and plan for the future. Able to navigate change effectively. 

5. What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders? 

Believe in yourself: cultivate self-confidence and believe in your abilities. Trust that you have the skills and resilience to overcome challenges.  Embrace challenges: view challenges as opportunities for growth.  Embrace them, learn from them, and use them to strengthen your skills and leadership abilities. Advocate for others: lift as you would climb.  Support your peers and use your position to create opportunities for other who are willing to put the effort in.