Elsa Andrianifahanana installed as President of the Black Women Lawyers' Association of Greater Chicago
Elsa Andrianifahanana, an associate in the Labor & Employment Practice in Jones Day's Chicago Office, was elected and has been installed as the 2022-2023 President of the Black Women Lawyers' Association of Greater Chicago, Inc. (BWLA). BWLA is a bar association of lawyers from across the profession, including state and federal judges, law professors, firm and government practitioners, and law students. It is one of the fastest growing bar associations in the state of Illinois, and provides educational programs, mentorship, and scholarship opportunities for its members and students throughout Chicago.
At the June installation ceremony in the Jones Day Chicago office, Seventh Circuit Judge Candace Jackson-Akiwumi presided and administered the oath of office. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the founding of BWLA. Jones Day Of Counsel, Hon. Judge Ann Claire Williams (Ret.), was one of the organization’s founding members.
"Thirty-five years ago, BWLA was established by a group of Black women leaders committed to supporting one another as they advanced within the legal profession while also dedicated to uplifting the greater Chicago community, “ said Ms. Andrianifahanana. “I am honored to follow in the footsteps of these trailblazers, and hope to build upon their legacy by continuing the impactful work BWLA has done in Chicago and across the profession.”
"Congratulations to Elsa on this significant achievement," said Tina Tabacchi, Jones Day Partner-in-Charge of the Chicago Office. "Elsa’s election as president of BWLA of Greater Chicago recognizes not only her leadership but her personal commitment to our profession and our community.”
Ms. Andrianifahanana’s practice focuses on complex labor and employment issues, including wage and hour issues, discrimination, class actions, privacy, and restrictive covenants. She also provides guidance to clients on preventative measures, including reviewing wage and hour practices, drafting company policies, and negotiating agreements.
She maintains an active pro bono practice. She has represented and advocated for victims of domestic violence and advised various nonprofits on corporate governance, tax-exemption, and conflict of interest issues.
