McGuireWoods Richmond partner Jacquelyn E. Stone was featured in the December edition of Discover Richmond magazine as part of the Richmond Times-Dispatch’s 2019 “Person of the Year” program that recognizes leaders for achievements and contributions that strengthen the Richmond region.
In the article, Stone described her experience at McGuireWoods, her early career on Capitol Hill and the importance of giving back to the community.
With ties to the firm going back 35 years, the Harvard Law School graduate represents clients in legislative matters before the Virginia General Assembly and handles regulatory issues before state and federal agencies. She also has more than two decades of experience in immigration and nationality matters.
“There were individuals at the firm, not just lawyers, who were willing to provide guidance and help me understand what I needed to know,” Stone said. “I didn’t focus on being a pioneer; this firm was open to me.”
The creator and former chair of McGuireWoods’ Diversity & Inclusion Committee, Stone became the first African-American woman to be named a partner at a major law firm in Virginia. She also was McGuireWoods’ firmwide hiring partner for more than 20 years.
In addition to helping to establish Partnership for the Future, a college preparation and workforce development program for Richmond-area high school students, Stone has served on numerous state and local boards and commissions. On the national level, she sits on the board of Just the Beginning – A Pipeline Organization, encouraging minority and low-income students to pursue legal careers.
“You need a whole team of people who can help you think through situations, share insights to help you make good decisions and introduce you to others,” Stone said in the article. “There are mutual benefits of mentoring as well. I’ve received so much in return.”