WOMEN TO WATCH

Shelby Howlett

Attorney
Wright Lindsey Jennings

An employment attorney at Wright Lindsey Jennings, I am one of the firm’s leaders on COVID-19 issues and employment-related legislation. I served as a law clerk for the Honorable Kristine Baker, attended Hendrix College and obtained my master’s degree in education from Hunter College. Before becoming a lawyer, I worked as a teacher and school administrator.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

Definitely my co-workers. I’m grateful to have many mentors and to work at a firm that is invested in my personal growth as an attorney – and a person.

How I knew this was my passion

I advise employers on policies that affect the daily lives of workers. I love helping create workplaces that help businesses thrive, while also ensuring that workers are treated fairly.

Biggest challenges in my career

I started practicing law around the start of the pandemic, which has required me to adapt to ever-changing circumstances, both for my clients and my own career.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Sixty percent of Arkansas third graders read below grade level. AR Kids Read is an intervention-based program providing students with volunteer tutors in order to improve their literacy skills.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

The legal field is inherently adversarial, but it does not have to be contentious. Better results are often achieved through collaboration with an opposing party rather than combativeness.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Connect with my support system. The best way for me to regroup is by talking with a mentor or loved-one that can remind me of my values and abilities.

Best advice I ever received

As a recovering perfectionist, I am learning that showing up imperfectly is an act of courage, and to treat myself with the same compassion I have for others.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Going to therapy regularly has transformed my life. Not only do I understand myself better, but I can also address stressors proactively before they become a bigger issue.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Belle Plaine, Kansas

I can't start my day until

I listen to the Daily Podcast.

Hobbies

DIY projects, reading

Binge watch

"Inventing Anna"

Last good read

"The Day the World Came to Town" by Jim DeFede

Favorite meal in town

Fassler Hall's chicken and waffles

Best recent local discovery

Camp Taco's ramen bowl

Latest splurge

Rhine River Cruise

Most-used app

Spotify

Dream vacation

Greece

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