In the last 12 months, what was your TOP career highlight? Leading and successfully closing a package of thirteen loans over the span of two days while experiencing a power-outage.

In the last 12 months, what ONE award were you most proud to receive? Receiving the Top Lawyer Rising Star award from the Herald Community Newspapers.

What advice would you give the next generation of women in your industry?  To be assertive, ask questions and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.

Maria Girardi is an associate attorney in the firm’s banking and financial services practice group representing lenders with respect to commercial transactions. She is a member of the Nassau County Bar Association, Nassau County Women’s Bar Association and is a member of the board of directors of the Nassau County Women’s Bar Foundation, the charitable arm of the Woman’s Bar Association.