Carla A. Reeves '08 studied political science and Spanish at Union College before earning a J.D. from Boston College Law School. Now a litigation associate at Goulston & Storrs PC, her practice is focused on employment law and litigation, and also includes government and internal investigations. She provides strategic advice to employers on all aspects of the employment relationship, compliance with employment laws and regulations, and litigation strategy. She also conducts internal investigations of workplace misconduct and provides workplace trainings on discrimination and harassment prevention. Additionally, Carla represents clients before state and federal courts, and administrative agencies in employment and other business disputes. She is member of the Board of Directors of the Volunteer Lawyers Project of the Boston Bar Association, a nonprofit organization that provides underserved families and individuals access to high quality, pro bono civil legal services. Carla also serves as pro bono counsel to domestic abuse survivors through the Women’s Bar Foundation’s Family Law Project for Domestic Abuse Survivors. She is a member of the Labor & Employment Steering Committee of the Boston Bar Association, the Women of Color Committee of the Boston Bar Association, the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association, and the 2020 Leadership Council on Leadership Diversity Fellows Program. At Goulston & Storrs, Carla serves on the Inclusion Advisory Committee and Hiring Committee.
What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your career or volunteer activities?
My practice is engaging and dynamic. I am always learning, connecting with people in different industries, and working closely with clients as they make very impactful decisions about workplace challenges. The immediacy involved in certain aspects of my practice can be challenging at times, but has made me a better lawyer.
Who inspired/inspires you, both professionally and personally?
My mother. She taught me what it means to have grit. This lesson has been invaluable to me as I have worked to advance in an industry in which women of color have been underrepresented.
What advice would you offer today’s women students, not just at Union, but across the country?
Be open to challenges and trust yourself. If you make a mistake, or feel something isn’t right for you, learn from that experience and keep moving forward.
What was your most formative experience at Union?
My most formative experience at Union was my involvement in student organizations on campus. I developed important leadership skills, invested time in activities and causes that were meaningful to me, met and connected with mentors, and developed lasting friendships with other students.