Rogers Joseph O’Donnell Joins 2024–25 Cohort of Diversity Lab’s Mansfield Rule Certification for Midsize Firms

Rogers Joseph O’Donnell is proud to announce the firm has joined the 2024-25 midsize cohort of Diversity Lab’s Mansfield Rule Certification process. RJO is one of 19 new law firms across the United States participating in this year’s program, and more than 365 firms nationwide have renewed their commitment for the 2024–25 certification period. 

The Mansfield Rule for Midsize Firms program launched in July and focuses on measurable goals, as well as collaboration with other participating law firms who share RJO’s values for promoting a more inclusive legal industry. Data shows that firms that remain committed and accountable to the Mansfield Certification process year-over-year are making substantial progress in creating inclusive talent practices and diversifying their leadership ranks.

“Our firm is dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace that contributes to creating a more equitable legal industry,” said shareholder Alecia Cotton, who is the chair of the firm’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee. “We are thrilled to be part of the Mansfield community, and learn alongside other firms who share our commitment to creating positive change at all levels of our profession. We believe that by making our workplace one where everyone can succeed, we can better serve our clients and their communities.”

Mansfield is a year-long structured certification process designed to ensure all attorneys at participating law firms have a transparent, fair and equal opportunity to be considered for advancement into leadership. Each year, firms are asked to recommit to the principles of transparency, accountability and knowledge sharing that are required through the certification process. 

Firms that successfully meet the Midsize Mansfield Rule criteria will be designated as “Mansfield Certified” and will have the opportunity to send diverse partners promoted during the certification process to the Mansfield Rule Client Forums in 2025 to build relationships with and learn from Diversity Lab’s in-house counsel collaborators. 

Firms that receive certification will be announced in the fall of 2025. If you are interested in learning more about Mansfield or RJO’s participation, please contact Alecia Cotton, shareholder and DEI committee chair.