Woman of the Week – Joyce Edelman

Each week, we feature a fantastic new woman we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting gals who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

Joyce Edelman

My Current Job/Company: I am a Partner with the law firm of Porter, Wright Morris & Arthur, LLP

My Birthday: 4/26/57

My Work: I just celebrated 30 years as a lawyer with Porter Wright! I defend pharmaceutical and medical device companies in complex product liability and mass tort litigation.

My Passion: I am passionate about my family, friends and career. I also have had a life-long passion for women’s issues which has been the focus of my community service.

My Family: Neal (great husband of 21 years); Josh (17 and a high school senior); Ilana (14 and a high school freshman).

My Heroes: My parents and my children are my heroes as they have taught me so many important life lessons. They inspire me to be the best person I can be.

My Escape: For the last 15 years, I have gone to the beach in Cape May, New Jersey with Neal, Josh, Ilana and my parents. I simply love any beach!

My Pet Peeve: Selfishness and bigotry are on the top of my list.

My Indulgence: Chocolate; french fries; cosmopolitans “reality” TV, and fashion….to name a few!

My Roots: I grew up in Wheeling, West Virginia in a loving Jewish home with two hard-working parents and two older talented sisters. I have had the same BFF my entire life as our moms were pregnant at the same time!

My Future: In the immediate future, I will try to prepare myself for my son leaving for college next year {Sigh}! In my long-term future, I want to age gracefully, take more risks and open new doors professionally and personally.

My Movie: I love movies but don’t have a favorite. The movie “Schindler’s List” had a profound effect on my life.

My Love: I love spending time with my kids. They light up my life in unimaginable ways.

My Quote on Life: “You must get involved to have an impact. No one is impressed with the won-lost record of the referee.” (John H. Holcomb)

My Accessory: Chunky necklaces; cuff bracelets; my YWCA “New to You” pink patent leather purse.

My Advice to Young Women: Take risks. Do things you can’t imagine. It’s all about confidence. Advocate for yourself and others. Stay authentic. Have fun.

How I Balance it All: Some days are better than others. On the days that no one is happy with me, I try not to beat myself up. I remind myself that I have a rich and meaningful professional and personal life and I am blessed. I have an amazing and supportive husband who handles a lot of our domestic life, especially when I am buried in work at the office or traveling. I rely on family and friends because it does take a village.