Spotlight On...Ashley Wright Winston & Strawn Practice Attorney

In this Spotlight Q&A, Practice Attorney Ashley Wright discusses her experience working full-time through law school and her passion for diversity in the legal community. 

What attracted you to Winston & Strawn?
I learned about Winston & Strawn through the former dean of my law school when he connected me with Dallas Partner Matt Orwig. Before this introduction, I did not know a lot about the firm since it was new to Dallas, but it did not take me long to realize the impact it would have on the legal community. I was drawn to the firm because of the opportunity to enjoy a diverse litigation practice, work alongside some of the best legal minds in the field, and make an immediate impact in Dallas. I also appreciated the focus Winston has on pro bono work. Community engagement and community service were integral parts of the law school education at UNT Dallas College of Law, and I wanted to make this part of my career as an attorney as well. Winston not only allows me to do that but also encourages the practice firmwide. That was a huge selling point for me.

You attended UNT Dallas law school at night while working full-time as a high school English teacher. How has this experience impacted your approach to your law practice?
My entire law school experience was about juggling: attempting to keep all of my responsibilities on track as gracefully as possible without dropping a ball. That also describes the practice of law. As a teacher, I was responsible for planning and executing lessons for two state-tested grade levels, managing administration, and parent expectations, and ensuring my students were prepared for the next phase of their lives. Teaching was the ultimate test in client management. As a student, I was aiming to excel, participating in Law Review and other activities, and focusing on my goal to become an effective advocate. In both aspects, I strived to be the best version of myself that I could be. I take this same approach to my role as an attorney. Just as I knew I was doing the right thing if my students were excelling, if our clients are happy, I know I can be proud of the work I am doing for them.

Tell us more about the Ashley Jones Wright Scholarship that was established at your law school.
My family established the Ashley Jones Wright (AJW) Scholarship at UNT Dallas College of Law as a graduation gift. It will be awarded to a student committed to increasing diversity in the legal profession. This was the best gift because I was the recipient of the Sarah T. Hughes Diversity Scholarship, which covered my full tuition for my last three years of law school. The purpose of the Hughes Scholarship was to increase diversity in the Dallas legal community, and I was honored to be selected as the first recipient from UNT Dallas College of Law. While the AJW scholarship is not yet at the capacity to cover full tuition, I am excited that it will make the financial burden a little lighter for a deserving law student. Diversity in the legal profession is very important to me, and this scholarship is just one way of helping achieve that goal.

Hear more from Ashley in this recent UNT Dallas alumni video.