Blank Rome is pleased to share that partners Jeanne M. Grasso, Brooke T. Iley, and Samantha Wallack have been recognized in Corporate Counsel’s 2025 Women, Influence & Power in Law (“WIPL”) Awards. The WIPL Awards honor in-house and law firm women leaders and allies who have demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the empowerment of women in the legal profession.
Jeanne, partner in the Maritime group, has been named a winner in the Law Firm Lifetime Achievement category. This distinguished honor recognizes women who, through years of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment, have profoundly impacted the legal profession by excelling in their careers, breaking barriers, advocating for change, and paving the way for future generations. At Blank Rome, Jeanne focuses her practice on maritime, international, and environmental law, serving maritime clients around the world, including vessel owners and operators, charterers, cargo owners, and waterfront facilities. Chambers USA ranks her among the top shipping regulatory lawyers, with clients praising her as “one of the most knowledgeable attorneys in the maritime industry.” Jeanne’s contributions also extend to public service as she sits on the Board of Directors of the Coast Guard Foundation and the Seamen’s Church Institute. Read Jeanne's honoree profile here.
Brooke, co-chair of the firm's national Labor & Employment group, has been named a finalist in the Law Firm Talent Management category. This award recognizes exceptional attorneys who champion firm-wide culture and lead transformative initiatives to attract, grow, and retain diverse talent across the organization. Brooke is a Chambers-ranked strategic advisor to employers and corporate executive teams or workforce compliance. She represents clients facing corporate restructurings, acquisitions, breach of fiduciary assets, and employment claims in negotiations, litigation, and arbitration. Brooke is deeply committed to understanding and protecting her clients’ business opportunities.
Samantha, co-chair of the firm’s national Real Estate practice, has been named a finalist in the Law Firm Mentor & Mentee Collaboration category. This award celebrates the dynamic and impactful relationship between mentors and mentees, recognizing mentors for their dedication, wisdom, and unwavering support in helping mentees overcome challenges and achieve lasting success. Samantha is a Chambers-ranked trusted adviser to a diverse clientele, including private equity funds, developers, private REITs, family businesses, insurance companies, and realty advisers. Samantha connects with her clients through a deep understanding of their business and an unwavering commitment to their success.
Honorees were celebrated at an awards dinner on October 7, 2025, during Corporate Counsel’s Women, Influence & Power in Law Conference in Washington, D.C.
To learn more about Corporate Counsel’s 2025 WIPL Awards, please click here.