As part of TMA’s celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re taking a look back at some of the women who built this association from the ground up, who volunteered their time and effort to help others in the profession, and who continue to inspire those who follow in their footsteps.
Cohen was a founding TMA member before local chapters even existed. After working alongside other founders to establish TMA Global, she launched TMA Chicago and took on the president’s role.
Back then, an organization like TMA—which brings all facets of corporate renewal together—was an exciting and welcome concept. “Corporate renewal is interdisciplinary. It takes lawyers, accountants, management people, bankers, and so many others working together,” says Cohen. “You never really worked alone, so bringing these professionals together as an association was just natural. It had no chance but to succeed!” she adds.
Cohen began her career as a bankruptcy lawyer after clerking for a federal bankruptcy judge. She quickly discovered that she loved the work and the ability to “make things better.” She also enjoyed the opportunity to work as a “specialist, but also a as a generalist.” Her work would touch on manufacturing problems, labor issues, landlord/tenant issues—a satisfying variety of issues to solve and people to help. “I cared a lot,” says Cohen. “Whether it was a successful workout of a problem that again allowed the company to flourish, or saving a company, I knew the work my colleagues and I did made things better, and helped companies reorganize, save jobs and promote commerce. The industry itself is a win-win,” she adds. “It’s wonderful and so upbeat.”
The joy of helping others and making a difference was a theme throughout Cohen’s career. As president of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter, Cohen worked to bring education and networking opportunities to members at the local level and formed a pro bono component that still exists today. “We might work with a theater that was doing wonderful programming but maybe had a subscription problem or an issue with their lease, and we were able to help them turnaround,” says Cohen.
Cohen was never put off by being a woman in a male-dominated profession. “I never had an issue being a woman,” says Cohen. “I didn’t see myself as a female lawyer, rather, as a lawyer who happened to be a woman. My mother always promoted and encouraged me, and I knew I could do the work. I had the skills and a right to be there. I just treated it as totally normal,” she adds. Cohen hired and mentored many women who became successful leaders within TMA and even inspired her daughter’s choice to become an attorney. “When my daughter, Jennifer, chose to go into law, I knew I was successful both as lawyer and as a mom.”
These days, Cohen looks at what TMA has become with pride. “I am so impressed with the talented women and the young leaders who are participating and attending the events. There is a whole new generation leading TMA,” she says.
Her advice for the next generation? “You have the right to be here. Go to global conferences and local programs. This is for you to take.” She adds, “Volunteer, make friends. Don’t wait for anyone to tap you on the shoulder and ask you to participate. Don’t hold back. There is a place for everybody, and you can make it yours. Go for it!”