Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Monica Thompson, senior managing associate in the Firm’s Commercial Litigation practice and co-chair of the Firm’s Hispanic/Latinx Organization for Leadership and Advancement affinity group.

1. Introduce yourself.

I am Monica Thompson, senior managing associate in the Commercial Litigation group, practicing in the Phoenix office. I joined Dentons in March 2019 with a small group of litigators from another firm. I have had the privilege of serving as co-chair of the Firm’s Hispanic/Latinx Organization for Leadership and Advancement (HOLA) affinity group since the fall of 2021.

2. How does being Hispanic/Latinx contribute to your professional success?

My Spanish heritage and other diverse characteristics have contributed to my success. My experiences as a minority woman provide me with a unique perspective on life and influence my approach with colleagues and clients alike to build positive relationships. In addition, these experiences serve as my motivation to achieve my definition of professional success.

3. What advice would you give to young Hispanic/Latinx lawyers/professionals starting their careers?

Seek and nurture several mentor relationships, as they are extremely valuable. Mentor/Mentee relationships, big and small, both within and outside the legal profession, have the potential to impact and shape you in meaningful ways.

4. Who inspired you the most to embrace your Hispanic/Latinx heritage?

Two women I admire most and who have also inspired me to embrace my heritage are US Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and my late grandmother. My grandmother, like Justice Sotomayor, was a pioneer in her own right and taught me the importance of integrity, resilience and perseverance.

5. What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month is special in that the country can take a moment to learn, experience, and embrace the rich culture that is Hispanic/Latinx culture. It is a time to recognize Hispanic leaders and their contributions that still impact our lives in various ways. It is a time to be inspired.

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