Indianapolis, Ind. — Tom Froehle, a longtime attorney and partner at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath, has been recognized for his significant contributions to both the legal field and the Indiana community. He will receive the Leadership in Law Lifetime Achievement Award from The Indiana Lawyer during a breakfast ceremony set for May 29, 2025.
Froehle has played a pivotal role in strengthening one of the nation’s largest law firms, guiding the firm through two major mergers that propelled it into the ranks of the top 50 law firms nationwide. As a public finance attorney, he has been instrumental in numerous high-profile projects throughout Indiana, including the construction of Lucas Oil Stadium and the Honda assembly plant in Greensburg.
Kathy Osborn, a partner at Faegre Drinker, praised Froehle’s vision and leadership in an award nomination, stating that his efforts have fostered growth not only within the firm but also within the broader legal landscape in Indiana. Nathan Feltman, publisher of The Indiana Lawyer, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Froehle’s extensive involvement in economic development initiatives, which have had a lasting impact on the state.
Froehle, the sixth recipient of this honor since the award’s inception in 2021, has made significant contributions to various civic organizations, including the Indiana Sports Corporation and the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee. His leadership has been recognized across the community, with many local organizations regularly seeking his guidance for various initiatives.
He began his career in law in 1988 with Baker & Daniels, where he developed a robust corporate and public finance practice. His ascent to leadership within the firm began in 2000 when he assumed the role of managing partner and continued until becoming chair and chief executive in 2008. Under his leadership, Baker & Daniels merged with Faegre & Benson in 2012 and later with Drinker Biddle & Reath in 2020, creating a firm that now boasts over 1,200 professionals in multiple locations worldwide.
The firm ranks as the 49th largest in the nation, and its revenue reported nearly $1 billion in 2023. This growth, according to Froehle, has been driven by the evolving needs of corporate clients who increasingly prefer to work with a smaller number of firms offering a comprehensive range of services.
Froehle’s influence extends beyond firm management; he has also worked on financing major developments that have created thousands of jobs and generated significant economic impact for the state. His career highlights include representing the Marion County Capital Improvement Board and negotiating leases that have shaped the landscape of Indianapolis.
As chairman emeritus of Faegre Drinker, Froehle is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of attorneys, guiding about 25 lawyers in their professional development. He emphasizes a diverse range of paths to success, helping younger attorneys understand how to better serve their clients and build sustainable practices.
Brooke Dunn, a counsel at Faegre Drinker, reflects on Froehle’s humility and leadership style, noting that he fosters an inclusive environment that values each individual’s contributions. His ability to connect with colleagues from various backgrounds underscores his commitment to building a supportive and collaborative culture within the firm.
Tom Froehle will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award alongside a distinguished group of legal professionals at the Leadership in Law awards breakfast, where the accomplishments of this year’s cohort, including 17 Distinguished Barristers and 14 Up and Coming Lawyers, will also be recognized.
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