Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight Series: Dahlia Davila

As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, we’ve asked our colleagues to reflect on the significance of this month.

Cleary Gottlieb knowledge solutions program manager Dahlia Davila shares some of her thoughts below.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Cleary.

I have been with Cleary Gottlieb for the past six years. Prior to joining the Firm, I worked at LexisNexis, where Cleary was one of my key accounts. This existing relationship facilitated a smooth transition to Cleary, where I initially served as the global operations specialist in the library. After approximately 2.5 years, I transitioned to a newly created role of practice operations manager within the U.S. litigation group. Following a successful tenure of about three years in that position, I moved to the knowledge solutions team as the program manager. While it may seem that I have held several roles in a relatively short period, this progression highlights Cleary’s commitment to professional growth and its dynamic work environment. I feel fortunate to be part of such an organization that supports and fosters career development. As the saying goes, “Third time’s the charm.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage Month holds deep personal and cultural significance for me. It’s a time to celebrate and honor the rich history, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. For me, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the resilience and achievements of individuals who have shaped our society, despite the challenges they have faced. Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it provides a platform to recognize and elevate the voices and experiences of Hispanic people. It cultivates a greater understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage, promoting cultural pride, and unity. By highlighting our stories, traditions, and accomplishments, this month helps to combat stereotypes and encourage a more inclusive society. It’s a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and the importance of celebrating the diversity of our nation.

Has your identity impacted how you approach your work and career?

My identity has significantly impacted how I approach my work and career. My background and experiences shape my perspective, influence my values, work ethic, and interactions with others. For instance, my cultural heritage has instilled in me a deep appreciation for diversity and inclusion. I am able to act on these values in my daily professional life through mentorship and other efforts where I can support others in their professional growth.

Are there any leaders, activists, writers/artists, professionals, or family members who have inspired you?

My deepest source of inspiration is my mother. As a single parent raising two daughters, she faced countless challenges with unwavering strength and resilience. Her daily struggles and sacrifices have profoundly shaped the woman I am today. Despite the hardships we faced, my mother’s love and dedication always made me feel cared for and valued. She nurtured us to be educated, independent, and driven, instilling in us a sense of purpose and ambition. The lessons she imparted through her actions and perseverance continue to inspire me to pursue excellence with a positive and determined spirit, facing every challenge with the same courage and resolve she demonstrated.

When you’re underrepresented in your chosen field, why is it important to have mentors and sponsors who are invested in you and your career?

When you’re underrepresented in your chosen field, having mentors and sponsors who are invested in you and your career is crucial for several reasons. First, mentors and sponsors provide invaluable guidance and support, helping to navigate the unique challenges that come with being in an underrepresented group. Their experience and insights can offer practical advice and strategies to overcome obstacles and advance professionally. Second, having mentors and sponsors who believe in your potential can significantly boost your confidence and motivation. Their encouragement and endorsement help to counteract the imposter syndrome that often accompanies being one of the few in your field. Knowing that someone with experience and influence is advocating for you can validate your contributions and reinforce your commitment to your career goals. Finally, mentors and sponsors can open doors and create opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. They often have networks and connections that can provide valuable introductions and recommendations, helping you to build a professional presence and gain visibility within your field.

What are the benefits of joining groups that focus on Latinx topics and issues?

I am honored to say that I was the liaison for the Latinx Professional Affinity Group at the Firm for over four years. During this time, the group focused on and discussed various Latinx topics and issues offering each member a range of meaningful benefits, both personally and professionally. In general, these groups provide and create a sense of community and belonging. They foster a space where individuals with similar cultural backgrounds and experiences can connect, share stories, and support one another. This sense of community can be empowering, offering a collective strength that can be crucial not just in navigating challenges, but also celebrating successes. Having this community provides an encouraging space for personal growth, professional opportunities, and strengthens cultural connections.

Are there any programs at Cleary that you have been part of that have contributed to your professional journey and feeling included at the firm?

As mentioned before, I held the role of liaison for the Latinx Professional Affinity Group, which has significantly contributed to my professional development and sense of inclusion at the firm. This group provided me with invaluable guidance and support from experienced colleagues, helping me navigate my career path and achieve my professional goals. Being part of this group enhanced my sense of belonging and helped me to appreciate and contribute to the Firm’s commitment to creating an inclusive work environment. Overall, this group as with many others, have been crucial in shaping my professional journey, providing opportunities for growth, and ensuring that I feel valued and included at Cleary.

What is your favorite thing about working in the legal industry, and why did you choose to work at Cleary?

From a young age, I aspired to become a lawyer. During high school, an internship in a law firm library revealed a path where I could remain closely connected to the legal field without the financial burden of law school. By pursuing a master’s degree in library science, I found a fulfilling career that allowed me to contribute significantly to the legal profession. Over the past 15 years, I’ve worked in various law firms, ultimately leading my own Library department before transitioning to the vendor world. Despite this success, there was a lingering void being away from the legal industry. Returning to the law firm environment at Cleary was a deliberate and exciting choice. The Firm’s esteemed reputation and dynamic culture offered an intellectually stimulating and deeply rewarding experience, allowing me to engage with talented professionals and contribute meaningfully to the legal community once again.

Is there anything I haven’t asked you about that you would want to share with the Cleary community?

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a special part of my life: my dog, Bella. She’s a delightful puggle, a mix of pug and beagle, who has brought immense joy and companionship into my life. Bella’s presence is a constant reminder of the simple, yet profound, joys that pets bring. While I often wish I could understand her thoughts directly, I’ve come to cherish the way her expressive face communicates her feelings and thoughts. Her unique personality and the bond we share have enriched my life in ways I can’t fully describe, but which I deeply appreciate.