2010 40 Under Forty: Marisa L. Pizzi
Partner, Bowditch & Dewey
Company location: Framingham
Residence: Wayland
Age: 38
Career highlights: I graduated from law school in 1997 and worked at a small insurance defense firm for a few years. I soon realized that I was interested in practicing business and commercial litigation on a broader scale and, in 1999, I began working at Bowditch & Dewey as an associate attorney in the firm’s litigation group. I quickly developed an interest in real estate litigation and permitting and eventually focused my practice in this area, with a particular emphasis on land use and zoning law. I have concentrated my practice in this area ever since.
Community involvement: I serve on the board of directors of the MetroWest YMCA. Growing up, I spent a lot of time at my local YMCA and experienced firsthand all the great programs the YMCA has to offer. Now, I am fortunate to be able to give back. The YMCA does a lot of great things, but I am most proud of the money it raises to provide financial assistance to children and families in need so that the YMCA can open its doors to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay.
Biggest success: I was elected partner at Bowditch & Dewey in January 2009 while working part-time, something that had not been previously accomplished at my firm. I began working part-time in 2004 after I gave birth to my first child. At the time, I was concerned that I was committing career suicide by going back to work on a reduced schedule. But with the support of my firm and a newly adopted flexible work arrangement policy, the transition to part-time status and eventually to partnership was made easier.
Mentors: I have had many mentors throughout my legal career, but the one person that has been a constant mentor throughout my life has been my mother. She sacrificed a lot to stay home with my brother and me when we were kids while my father went to school and worked. The one thing I remember most is that she was always there for us. I try to be there for my kids the same way.
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