:
Kristi D. Kelly Named Finalist for US Women, Influence & Power in Law Award
Connecticut – Suisman Shapiro is proud to announce that Attorney Kristi D. Kelly has been named a finalist in the Law Firm Collaborative Leadership category of the 2025 US Women, Influence & Power in Law (WIPL) Awards, presented by Corporate Counsel, a national publication.This prestigious national award honors women attorneys who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, vision, and a sustained commitment to advancing the empowerment of women in the legal profession.
Attorney Kelly, a Director at Suisman Shapiro-the largest law firm in eastern Connecticut-is a trusted legal advisor, mentor, and advocate whose work spans labor, employment, and municipal law. She represents municipalities, public agencies, and private employers in matters ranging from collective bargaining and employment investigations to compliance and discrimination claims. She regularly appears before local governments and state and federal administrative bodies, including the Connecticut State Board of Labor relations, the EEOC, OSHA, and the Department of Labor.
Prior to joining Suisman Shapiro, Attorney Kelly held notable public service roles, including as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Washington and as a civilian labor attorney for the U.S. Department of the Army in Alaska. Her diverse legal background provides her with a rare and valued viewpoint that benefits both her clients and colleagues.At Suisman shapiro, Kristi leads the firm’s Human Resources Committee and plays a pivotal role in recruitment and professional advancement, with a focus on increasing diversity and inclusion. in 2025, she will launch the firm’s inaugural Women in Leadership Committee, a strategic initiative designed to foster mentorship, connection, and career advancement for women at Suisman Shapiro.
“Kristi brings a thoughtful and collaborative approach to her work that has had a meaningful impact across our firm,” said Eric W. Callahan, Managing Director of Suisman Shapiro. “Her commitment to mentorship, service, and inclusion reflects the values we strive to uphold and contributes greatly to our workplace culture. We are proud to see her recognized on a national stage.”
“This honor is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Kristi D. Kelly. “Collaboration has always been an vital part of how I approach my work. I’m fortunate to work alongside colleagues who value mentorship, inclusion, and supporting one another’s growth – both personally and professionally.”
Beyond the office, kristi’s dedication to service is equally notable. She is a VA-accredited attorney who has donated countless hours to pro bono legal work on behalf of disabled veterans thru the Connecticut Veterans legal Center. She was honored with the Connecticut Bar Association’s 2020 Honorable Anthony V. DeMayo Pro Bono Service Award.She also served as President of the Board of Higher Edge, a nonprofit that supports first-generation college students, and currently sits on the Board of the USS Groton Sail Foundation.
Winners of the 2025 US Women,influence & Power in Law Awards will be announced at an awards dinner on October 7 during the WIPL Conference in Washington,D.C.
