To commemorate Women’s History Month, Strauss Troy is proud to spotlight several exceptional female clients who have made significant strides in their respective careers and industries. These remarkable women have not only achieved success but have also graciously shared insights into the advice they’ve received and shared, the influential women who have inspired them, and their dedication to mentoring and motivating other women.
Today we are highlighting Julie Jones. Julie is the Executive Director of the Northern Kentucky Bar Association and has served in her current role since 2007. Prior to joining the NKBA, Julie was a funeral director at her family business for just shy of 20 years. Julie resides in Ft. Thomas with her partner, Doug, and is blessed to have two wonderful children Josh (Stephanie) and Emilie (Eric); and her precious 6 month old grandsugar, Robby.
1. What does Women’s History Month mean to you and why is it important?
As cliché as it may sound, it is viewed with excitement because today’s women have truly paved the way for future generations. It is this generation of women who are showing young ladies who look up to them that we are smart, we are leaders, we are brave and we are able. The modern woman has also proven it is possible to be a successful professional mother, which speaks volumes for how we can pivot and keep it all together both at work and at home.
2. How have you witnessed the roles of women change in society over the past decade(s) in your industry?
This is my 17th year as the Executive Director of the NKBA and it is exciting to witness how women in law are motivated to be leaders within their firms. The ratio of women vs. men in law has closed and the number of women who have a seat at the partner’s table has increased dramatically. More importantly, the number of women owning or running law firms has jumped to an all-time high.
3. Tell me about an influential woman in your life and how they have impacted you.
Although there are a number of dynamic women who have influenced me over the years, I do not have just one impactful woman who stands out. I have been blessed to have the endless support of a group of ladies that have been my best friends since kindergarten. We are able to celebrate one another through the good and the bad. They are constant reminders that women can do anything and we need to always be one another’s cheerleaders along the way.
4. What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received or like to give?
Be a hype-girl! Be that girl who roots for the other girl, who encourages other women to believe in themselves and their dreams. In a profession of competitive nature, do not tear someone down for being more successful and be sincerely happy for the woman who achieves a goal before you. Cheer her on for your time is coming!
5. Is there anything you do to help mentor or motivate other women or young girls?
As professionals, we are able to mentor others in so many ways. We can mentor regarding a work-related task, by way of introductions, recognizing when someone needs a helping hand, but most importantly by attitude. Each day we have the wonderful opportunity to positively impact the lives of the people around us. This is a double-edged sword because you can watch a mentee develop by providing them the tools of a positive approach to everything and feel rewarded at the same time.
Julie has been fortunate to develop a wonderful working relationship with not just Strauss Troy as a law firm, but also with the majority of local attorneys within the firm. She says, “When I look at the list of Strauss attorneys, I am overjoyed with the profound relationships I have developed with the majority of them. The Strauss team is an exceptional group of professionals who understand their role within the community and how their leadership impacts the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati region.”