San Francisco and New York – June 8, 2026 – Forbes has recognized Cooley’s CEO and a leading litigator from the firm’s New York office on its inaugural list of America’s Top Women Lawyers.

  • Rachel Proffitt, partner and CEO, focuses on shaping and executing the firm’s strategic priorities, reinforcing and strengthening its unique culture, and promoting the continued elevation of Cooley’s powerful brand.
  • Rebekah Donaleski, the head of business litigation for New York, handles complex commercial disputes, high-stakes white-collar defense and investigations, and federal and state trials.

Forbes’ list honors 200 women lawyers who “distinguished themselves through notable deals and transactions, impressive trial work, sound judgment, and the respect of clients, peers and industry leaders.” Honorees were rated on multiple factors, including notable litigation, leadership, client impact, firm and community involvement, and recognition within the broader legal industry.

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