Spencer Fane hosted its annual International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration on March 5 and was honored to welcome Judge Glenda A. Hatchett as keynote speaker for the virtual event.
Presented by the firm’s Women ADVOCATE Connect Group and led by Courtney Davis Powell, the inspiring conversation with Judge Hatchett centered on the 2026 IWD theme, “Give to Gain” and how “giving is not a subtraction, it’s intentional multiplication.”
Drawing on her experience as a judge, corporate executive, crisis management expert, and media voice, Judge Hatchett shared insights with Spencer Fane professionals and clients on leadership, authenticity, community, and the power of using one’s platform to create impact – offering inspiration and perspective for professionals across industries committed to advancing equity and inclusive leadership.
Providing “Glenda’s Golden Rules” for stepping into one’s purpose, Judge Hatchett advised “be clear about who you are and to whom you belong, be authentic,” and remember that “nothing is worth lying about.”
She also emphasized that everyone can do something to create a brighter future: “I believe that’s what this whole notion of giving to gain means: that we are called on to write a new story of hope and possibility for people who need us.”
Judge Hatchett is a renowned jurist, attorney, author, and national thought leader – whose groundbreaking career spans more than four decades at the intersection of law, leadership, justice, and advocacy. From becoming Georgia’s first Black chief judge of a state court to serving on the boards of Fortune 500 companies and handling nationally significant civil rights and wrongful death cases, Judge Hatchett has consistently challenged barriers and driven meaningful change.
Learn more about Women ADVOCATE and the firm’s equity-focused initiatives here.